Tonsils

Tonsils are two small groups of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat, one on each side of the palate. They act as an important part of the body's immune system, trapping and filtering out bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful substances from the air we breathe. They also produce antibodies that help to fight off infections and they even release a special type of white blood cell to the site of infection. Tonsils can become inflamed due to infection, leading to a tonsillitis which can produce symptoms, such as sore throat and fever. Tonsillectomy, a surgical procedure, may be recommended in cases of severe infection to help relieve symptoms. Reducing the size of the tonsils can also be beneficial in cases where they are enlarged and obstructive, causing difficulty with breathing or swallowing.