Tonsils are two small masses of tissue located on either side of the back of the throat. They are part of the lymphatic system, which helps fight infections in the body, and they play a role in the immune system, particularly during childhood.
Tonsils help trap bacteria, viruses, and other germs that enter the body through the mouth or nose. They contain white blood cells that fight off infections, helping to prevent the spread of harmful microorganisms further into the body.
However, sometimes the tonsils themselves can become infected, leading to a condition called tonsillitis.
If tonsillitis becomes recurrent, chronic, or causes complications such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, sleep apnea, or bacterial infections like strep throat, a healthcare provider might recommend tonsillectomy—a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils. Tonsillectomy is a common treatment for persistent or severe tonsillitis.
In many cases, especially in childhood, the tonsils play an essential role in the immune system's development and may shrink in size as a person gets older. However, they generally continue to function as part of the body's defense against infections.
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