Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy in Gurnee & Libertyville
Your tonsils and adenoids help your immune system, but when they’re frequently infected or enlarged, they can cause sore throats, snoring, sleep problems, and ear issues. At Lake County ENT, we evaluate whether careful medical treatment or a tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy is the best path to relief—for children and adults.
What they are
Lymph tissue at the back of the throat (tonsils) and behind the nose (adenoids) that helps filter germs.
Common problems
Recurrent infections, chronic tonsillitis, bad breath, ear fluid/infections, nasal blockage, snoring, and sleep apnea.
How we help
ENT exam, testing when needed, and a clear plan—from antibiotics and watchful waiting to safe outpatient surgery.
Frequent strep, bad breath, or nightly snoring? Let’s find the cause and fix it.
Common Symptoms
Tonsillitis
- Red, swollen tonsils with possible white/yellow coating
- Sore throat, painful swallowing, ear pain
- Fever, swollen neck glands, bad breath
- Voice changes (thick “hot potato” speech)
Enlarged Adenoids/Tonsils
- Chronic mouth breathing and nasal-sounding speech
- Snoring, noisy breathing, restless sleep
- Pauses in breathing (possible sleep apnea)
- Recurrent ear infections or fluid with hearing issues
When to call us: Repeated throat infections, persistent bad breath with tonsil debris, chronic snoring, witnessed apneas, or frequent ear infections.
Call 911 for severe breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, or dehydration in a child who can’t swallow fluids.
How We Diagnose Tonsil & Adenoid Problems
Our Evaluation
- Head & neck exam; look for tonsil size, debris, and tenderness
- Check nasal airflow and adenoid size (mirror or flexible scope)
- Review infection frequency, antibiotics, and sleep symptoms
Tests We May Use
- Throat culture or rapid strep test during acute infection
- Sleep study (polysomnogram) if sleep apnea is suspected
- Occasional X-ray/ultrasound or labs for special situations
Not sure if surgery is necessary? We start with the least invasive options first.
Treatment Options
Medical Care
- Antibiotics for confirmed bacterial infections (e.g., strep)
- Pain control, hydration, and rest during acute episodes
- Allergy/nasal care for congestion contributing to mouth breathing
- Watchful waiting if infections are infrequent and mild
Surgery (Outpatient)
- Tonsillectomy: Removes tonsils for recurrent/chronic infection or sleep-disordered breathing
- Adenoidectomy: Reduces nasal blockage, ear infections, or snoring
- Often performed together; no external incisions
- Most patients go home the same day with a clear recovery plan
What to Expect: Preparation & Recovery
Before Surgery
- Review medications with us; avoid aspirin-containing products pre-op if advised
- Pre-op instructions include when to stop food and liquids
- We answer questions and help children know what to expect
After Surgery
- Sore throat and ear pain (referred) are common for several days
- Fluids are essential to prevent dehydration; advance diet as tolerated
- Low-grade fever, bad breath, and white scabs in the throat are typical
- Call us immediately for significant bleeding or inability to drink
Clear answers, gentle care. We’ll guide you through every step—from decision to recovery.
FAQs
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Ready for fewer infections and better sleep? Let’s talk about the safest, most effective option for you or your child.