When a child keeps getting sick with sore throats, ear infections, or struggles to breathe at night, doctors often recommend an adenotonsillectomy, a surgical procedure to remove both the tonsils and adenoids. Also known as T&A, it's one of the most common operations performed on children in the U.S., and for good reason.
The tonsils, two soft tissue masses at the back of the throat and the adenoids, a similar tissue mass behind the nose are part of the immune system. But when they're constantly swollen or infected, they stop helping and start causing problems. Kids with enlarged adenoids often snore loudly, breathe through their mouths, or have trouble sleeping — which can affect school performance and behavior. Repeated strep throat or ear infections linked to these tissues can also mean more antibiotics, missed school days, and hearing issues from fluid buildup behind the eardrums.
That’s why adenotonsillectomy isn’t just about removing tissue — it’s about improving daily life. Many parents notice big changes after surgery: kids sleep better, stop snoring, get fewer ear infections, and even start gaining weight because they can eat without pain. The procedure is usually done as an outpatient surgery under general anesthesia, and most children go home the same day. Recovery takes about a week or two, with sore throat, fatigue, and mild ear pain being normal. But the long-term benefits often outweigh the short-term discomfort.
It’s not for every child. Doctors use clear guidelines — like how many infections per year, how bad the breathing gets at night, or if hearing is affected — to decide if surgery is right. Some kids do fine with watchful waiting, especially if infections are mild or seasonal. But for those stuck in a cycle of sickness and sleeplessness, this surgery can be life-changing.
The posts below cover real-world concerns parents and caregivers face: when antibiotics work versus when surgery is needed, how ear infections connect to adenoid problems, what recovery looks like, and how to spot complications. You’ll also find advice on managing pain, diet after surgery, and when to call the doctor. Whether you’re just starting to research options or preparing for the procedure, these guides give you the facts without the fluff.
Pediatric sleep apnea is often caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids, blocking airflow during sleep. Adenotonsillectomy is the first-line treatment, with CPAP used when surgery isn't an option. Learn how diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up work for children.
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