Is Tonsil Removal the Right Decision for Me? Dealing with Recurring Mouth Ulcers and Enlarged Tonsils
Age/Sex: 20M Height/Weight: 184 cm / 80 kg Location: Slovenia (Europe) Ethnicity: Caucasian Lifestyle: I do not consume alcohol, smoke, or use illicit substances. Hello, I am experiencing persistent issues with painful mouth ulcers, commonly known as canker sores, for over five years. These outbreaks tend to occur around the months of April and May, as well as October. During these flare-ups, I also suffer from a sore throat, an enlarged left tonsil, and tenderness in my neck when I apply pressure. Notably, the left tonsil remains swollen even between these episodes, although I do not experience pain or fever. I have never been diagnosed with strep throat or typical tonsillitis; however, a blood test indicated that my ASLO levels were high, suggesting a possible past streptococcal infection. Throat cultures consistently return negative results. Medical professionals have speculated that I might have oral lichen planus, as indicated by a biopsy and immune testing. However, there has not been a definitive diagnosis. I have consulted three different ENT specialists regarding my condition. One recommended a tonsillectomy, while another suggested it “might provide some relief”, and a third expressed uncertainty. As a result, I decided to cancel my planned surgery because I did not receive a clear rationale for the tonsil removal. The recurring mouth ulcers tend to emerge during stressful periods, such as during college exams, reduced food intake, and inadequate sleep. Each episode typically lasts about two weeks. I have a few questions: 1. Could the tonsils be triggering this immune response or ongoing inflammation? 2. Would getting my tonsils removed alleviate the ulcers or decrease their frequency? 3. Are there risks associated with tonsillectomy if I have never had the typical signs of tonsillitis?
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 2:20:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
Deciding whether to go through with tonsil removal (tonsillectomy) involves careful consideration of your symptoms and condition. Your recurring mouth ulcers and enlarged tonsil present challenges, and it's understandable to seek clarity regarding potential treatment options.
Main Points:
- Tonsils and Immune Response: Your enlarged tonsil could contribute to ongoing inflammation, but it’s not the only factor.
- Impact of Tonsillectomy: Removal may help reduce the frequency of throat-related symptoms, but it may not directly resolve mouth ulcers.
- Surgical Risks: Tonsillectomy carries risks, especially if there’s no history of recurrent tonsillitis.
Explanation:
1. Tonsils and Immune Response:
The tonsils play a role in the immune system; they help fight infections. However, if you have chronic inflammation from other causes (like stress or immune-related conditions), it’s possible your tonsil could remain enlarged due to this ongoing immune response rather than being the root cause.
2. Impact of Tonsillectomy:
For some individuals, especially those with recurrent throat infections, a tonsillectomy can lead to fewer throat symptoms. However, since you don't have typical signs of frequent tonsillitis, the relationship between your tonsils and mouth ulcers is less clear. Studies suggest that while tonsillectomy may help with throat discomfort, it does not guarantee a resolution of canker sores, especially if they are linked to stress or other indirect factors.
3. Surgical Risks:
Tonsillectomy, like any surgery, comes with risks such as bleeding, infection, and breathing difficulties during recovery. Given you do not have recurrent tonsillitis, the risks may not outweigh potential benefits.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your mouth ulcers, tonsil size, and any throat discomfort. Note any patterns related to stress or lifestyle, such as during exams.
- Explore Stress Management: Since episodes correlate with stress, consider techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or relaxation exercises to reduce anxiety and improve overall health.
- Dietary Adjustments: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, particularly B vitamins, zinc, and iron, which may support your immune function. Staying hydrated is equally essential.
- Follow-Up with ENT Specialists: Given the uncertainty you've encountered, consider seeking a fourth opinion or asking for further consultations specifically about the interaction between your tonsils and mouth ulcers.
- Ask About Alternative Treatments: Discuss other management options for mouth ulcers, such as topical treatments or lifestyle changes that may lessen their severity and frequency.
This approach ensures you're informed and actively participating in your healthcare decisions while exploring effective strategies for your symptoms. Remember, you're your best advocate when it comes to understanding your own health.
Related Questions
Considering an Upcoming Andoscopy: Seeking Input
Greetings, Reddit medical community! I'm a 29-year-old woman who maintains a fairly healthy lifestyle and works as a case manager. I take regular walks and incorporate Benefiber into my routine three times a week. Over the past year, I've experienced intense pain during bowel movements—think sharp, unbearable discomfort that feels almost like glass. Occasionally, I notice some bleeding, but it's not coming from bloody stool; rather, it seems to be from the stool itself as it moves through my system. To address these issues, I've tried both probiotics and prebiotics, in addition to increasing my fiber intake. I've also modified my diet in hopes of finding relief. Initially, I consulted with a physician who was unable to pinpoint the cause but ruled out hemorrhoids. I then visited a surgeon who performed a physical examination and, despite not knowing what was wrong, dismissed the possibility of an anal fissure because I didn't react with screaming pain. Quite frustrating! Recently, I’ve experienced a decrease in my pain levels and continue to use my fiber supplements, which has been encouraging. Now, I have an andoscopy scheduled for next week, and I'm wondering if I should proceed with it or if it's wiser to skip it. I really don't like taking time off work only to leave the doctor's office without answers. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated! Thank you!
Understanding Potential Stitch Infections
Hello, I’m a 25-year-old female and had two cysts surgically excised from my forearm six days ago, on Monday. I took a photo on Tuesday, another on Friday, and the latest one was taken today, Sunday. My surgeon advised against using any antibiotic ointment, recommending instead that I clean the area with a gentle soap and apply Vaseline. I have been diligently washing the site softly both in the morning and evening, followed by a layer of Vaseline beneath a bandage. Initially, the area primarily felt sore and itchy. However, by Friday, I noticed an increase in redness and discomfort. Currently, it appears to be crusty, has intensified in redness, and is hurting more than before. I’m curious if this level of discomfort is a typical aspect of the healing process, or if these symptoms suggest a possible infection. I have reached out to my doctor’s office, but they are closed today, so I’m looking for some advice in the meantime.
Seeking Guidance on Mastoiditis Management
I am reaching out for medical advice regarding my condition: I’m a 33-year-old male, standing at 175 cm tall and weighing 75 kg, diagnosed with Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) in my right ear for the past two months. This diagnosis includes a perforated eardrum accompanied by continual discharge of pus. At the outset, my ENT specialist prescribed a series of oral antibiotics, such as Amoxiclav, alongside topical drops like Neosporin H and Ciplox. Regrettably, none have yielded any positive results, and my ear infection remains persistent. A pus culture identified the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a strain known to resist all typical oral antibiotics administered. A CT scan conducted on my temporal bone showed that the infection has extended to the mastoid air cells, although fortunately, no bone erosion has occurred yet. I find myself at a crossroads and uncertain about my subsequent steps. Despite several rounds of antibiotic treatments and ear drops, I have not experienced significant recovery. I have several inquiries: 1. What should my subsequent treatment options be? 2. Would it be advisable to consider intravenous antibiotics, such as Cefoperazone-Sulbactam, based on sensitivity results? 3. Is there a possibility of managing this infection without resorting to surgery? 4. At what stage would a mastoidectomy be deemed necessary, and how critical is this if there is currently no erosion of the bone? I would greatly appreciate advice or shared experiences from any healthcare professionals or individuals who have dealt with similar situations. Thank you very much for your help!
Six Months of Neuropathy: My Journey
At the age of 32, I started experiencing neuralgia in my left arm in January, which has also been accompanied by crippling fatigue. After consulting a neurologist, I underwent an MRI, leading to a diagnosis of brachial neuritis. However, just a month later, I began to feel similar neuralgic pain and an uncomfortable sensation akin to hot water trickling down my left leg beneath the knee. While my brain MRI returned normal results, a lumbar puncture indicated the presence of oligoclonal bands, and blood tests yielded clear results. Although my pain levels improved with medication, which included pregabalin and intravenous steroids, the discomfort never fully subsided. Instead of the 8 to 10 out of 10 pain I was feeling, it's now at a more manageable 3 out of 10. Currently, I find myself in a worse situation; while fatigue was my initial struggle, the pain in my arm has escalated to a staggering 10 out of 10. It’s become unbearable to the point where I’ve joked about wanting to saw off my arm for relief. In response to this situation, my neurologist has adjusted my pregabalin dosage and prescribed new medication to tackle my fatigue. She plans to conduct follow-up MRIs in September to monitor my progress. It's worth noting that I had a previous episode of neuralgia in this arm back in 2023, which lasted for four weeks before disappearing on its own. At this stage, it feels like I might not receive a concrete diagnosis for another five years. The persistent nerve pain is incredibly debilitating, and it frustrates me to rely on medications that make my mind feel muddled and unfocused. Does anyone have insights into possible differential diagnoses or any recommendations to help manage this condition?
Experiencing Memory Issues at 25
At the age of 25, I’ve encountered some unexpected memory problems over the past week. For instance, my sister recently shared her agenda for the following day, yet when the time arrived, I had completely forgotten her plans, which is unusual for me. Additionally, I had to ask my cousin about her schedule multiple times in one day, as I recall she had been out with friends the previous night. Furthermore, while trying to discuss a book I’m currently reading with a friend, I shockingly couldn’t remember the beginning, despite having read it just the day before. These lapses in memory are alarming since I typically have a strong recollection of details. In another instance, I texted a friend under the impression they were returning home from work, although I mistakenly thought it was two hours earlier than it actually was, despite checking the time. The weather has been quite hot lately, and while I’ve been staying adequately hydrated, I’m still experiencing these memory issues. I’ve been using Ibuprofen and applying Diclofenac salve regularly to manage discomfort in my feet, which has also hindered my ability to work. I doubt it’s related to carbon dioxide exposure, as our home is heated electrically and we do not rely on gas appliances; in fact, we make a point of ventilating the house every night to combat the heat. Could the high temperatures be contributing to this memory confusion?