Repeatedly swollen tonsils and glands

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I also posted this under cold and flu, but I don't really have either, so I wasn't sure how to categorize this...

I am 24 years old and still have my tonsils. I always have swollen glands in my ear/neck/jaw area, and when I am ill, they become HUGE. The past few years, I have noticed that my throat swells up about every other month, along with increased size and tenderness of my glands. I have been to clinics to test for strep, but it always comes out negative. The Doctor usually prescribes amoxicillin or penicillin and sends me on my way. I know I should probably pursue this further, especially since my tonsils seem to be perpetually swollen, but I was just wondering if anyone had some input or tips. I am not currently insured, but hope to be within the next 3 months. Any input will help!! Thanks!

[drasdma]

If you need dental work sart there first, if not. You should consider seeing an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor. Before your appointment get a copy from your pharmacies of all meds in their files. Go thru the list and hightlight all the times you were given antibiotics. I would suggest the last 12 months. Doctors do not like to do this surgery on patients over 12 because the risk increases a great deal, but they will do it and you will feel so much better. Best Wishes! B

[christa32us]

My best friend has chronic problems with her tonsils. Her doctor told her this last time that if it happens again then they'll have to removed because it has been on-going for a couple of yrs. She's nervous about it cause when you get sick, you really get sick.
Good luck!!

[prettyface]

I used to have the same tonsil problem like you do and like I used to take amoxicillin but somehow it doesn't stop the swelling so what i did is to consult another doctor and then this doctor prescribed me a different antibiotic since he said the bacteria that causes the swelling of my tonsils are much stronger than the usual tonsilitis causing bacteria. I have forgotten the name of the antibiotic however I still have the prescription and tomorrow I might just post it here.

Do not put your profession in your posts. Please read board rules.

[Titchou]

It's no fun having your tonsils out as an adult BUT the rewards are well worth the effort! Take my word for it. I had mine out at 26 and have been so healthy since then - insofar as sore throats, flu, sinus infections, etc that I could hardly believe it the first few years.