The tonsils are not just tiny structures located in the throat, but are a complex of palatal tonsils, pharyngeal tonsils (also known as adenoids), lingual tonsils, and tube tonsils that guard the entrance to our respiratory and digestive systems. This defense system plays a vital role in blocking the invasion of foreign antigens from viruses, bacteria and food**, and plays a significant role in both the overall and local immune response. The tonsils are rich in lymphoid tissue and produce a large number of immune antibodies and cytokines, which directly or indirectly destroy invading microorganisms and provide strong protection for the body.
Under normal conditions, the tonsils are continuously secreted through the intact epithelium and mucous glands on their surface, which effectively excretes bacteria and exfoliated epithelial cells and maintains the hygiene of the throat area. However, once the body's defenses are weakened or the secretory function of the tonsils is impaired, it can lead to inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsillitis not only causes local redness and swelling and other inflammatory reactions, but also produces a large number of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-2, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor, etc., which trigger a systemic inflammatory response, which sometimes affects the kidneys.
When dealing with tonsil problems, we employ two main strategies: non-surgical** and surgical**. In most cases, non-surgical**, i.e., medication to relieve symptoms, is sufficient. However, in three specific cases, surgery** – the direct removal of the tonsils – becomes an option.
First, surgical removal becomes a viable option when repeated inflammation of the tonsils causes far more discomfort than its role in the immune system. Second, excision should be considered if the tonsils are enlarged and severely affect sleep quality and breathing, especially if medications** fail to improve them. Excessive enlargement of the tonsils may lead to snoring during sleep and breathing disorders, which can have a significant negative impact on health. Finally, when tonsil inflammation frequently causes serious complications, such as rheumatoid arthritis, nephritis, myocarditis, etc., excision surgery is particularly important.
The relationship between tonsillectomy surgery and kidney disease is oversimplified. Inflammation of the tonsils can exacerbate kidney problems, but it's not the direct cause of kidney disease. Therefore, removal of the tonsils, while reducing inflammation-induced kidney damage, is not a substitute for a comprehensive approach to kidney disease. People with kidney disease still need to be kept healthy with medications** and dietary management.
There is no scientific basis for prophylactic removal of tonsils to avoid worsening of kidney disease. The link between tonsil inflammation and kidney damage is unclear in some kidney diseases, and this may not only help protect the kidneys, but may also increase the risk of respiratory disease and is not recommended.
Removal of the tonsils in children with frequent inflammation should be considered with caution. During childhood, the tonsils play a key role in fighting infections as important immune organs. Especially before the age of 6 or 7, the tonsils help boost the child's immunity. As we age, the tonsils naturally shrink, so there is no need to rush to remove them. Excision should only be considered if the tonsils are significantly enlarged and interfere with quality of life, and when they are older than 25 years.