ArthroCare ENT: 2. Visit to Primary Care Physician

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ArthroCare ENT International

2. Visit to Primary Care Physician

Our e-mail guide to help your plan for your child's tonsillectomy.

Be prepared

View a symptom discussion guide to take to your Primary Care Physician

If you suspect that you or your child are having a problem with tonsils, make an appointment to see your doctor. Your doctor will want to discuss any symptoms that you have noticed and will talk to you about any changes in health or sleeping habits.

During the examination your physician will examine the head and neck, including the ears, nose, and throat using a tongue depressor, a mirror, and small flashlight-like instrument to see if the tonsils and adenoids are enlarged or infected.

If the tonsils appear to be enlarged, your doctor may take an x-ray to determine the size and shape of the tonsils and adenoids. If the enlarged tonsils are causing sleep disturbances, your doctor may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Treatment for sleep disturbances includes the use of positive air pressure, weight loss (in obese children), and/or tonsillectomy.

If the tonsils appear to be infected, your doctor will probably perform a series of tests. He or she may take a throat culture to determine if an infection is present. A blood test may also be performed. If you have tonsillitis, the doctor will probably prescribe an antibiotic to help fight the infection. If you or your child has tonsillitis frequently, your doctor may refer you to an ENT specialist.