Does tonsillar hypertrophy affect breathing during children's physical examination

Whether tonsil hypertrophy affects breathing during a child's physical examination depends on the degree of hypertrophy. In most cases, mild hypertrophy does not affect breathing, while severe hypertrophy may block the airway. Tonsillar hypertrophy can be divided into two types: physiological and pathological. Physiological hypertrophy is common in children aged 3-10 and is a normal phenomenon in the development of the immune system. It usually does not cause significant respiratory disorders. Pathological hypertrophy may be caused by repeated respiratory infections, allergic reactions, gastroesophageal reflux, and other factors. When hypertrophy reaches third degree, it may manifest as symptoms such as sleep snoring, mouth breathing, and apnea. Examination shows that the tonsils are close to or beyond the midline, and there may be secretions or scar formation on the surface. For cases that affect breathing, doctors may recommend conducting polysomnography to assess the degree of hypoxia. If tonsillar hypertrophy has affected respiratory function, the treatment plan includes conservative measures such as infection control and anti allergic therapy, and tonsillectomy may be necessary. After surgery, it is important to maintain oral hygiene, avoid vigorous exercise, and gradually transition to a soft diet. In daily life, it is important to ensure sufficient sleep, avoid exposure to respiratory irritants such as secondhand smoke, and strengthen exercise to enhance immunity. It is recommended to have regular check ups to monitor respiratory status and tonsil changes.