Published on: 7/9/2025
What could cause asymmetrical swelling of the tonsils?
Asymmetrical tonsil swelling can be caused by infections, or in rare cases, more serious conditions like tumors. It's important to get it checked by a doctor.
Explanation
Asymmetrical swelling of the tonsils means that one tonsil is larger than the other. This can happen for a few reasons.
Infections: Often, infections such as tonsillitis can cause one tonsil to swell more than the other. This is usually due to bacteria or viruses.
Other Causes: According to Cinar, sometimes the swelling doesn't cause any symptoms but still needs to be checked. Guimarães and colleagues mention that in rare cases, a bigger tonsil might be linked to more serious conditions like tumors.
Evaluation: Cortez and others suggest that doctors should look at the tonsils carefully to find out why one is bigger. This might include checking for infections or other conditions.
If you notice one tonsil is bigger than the other, it's important to see a doctor. They can figure out what's causing the swelling and make sure it's nothing serious.
(References)
- Cinar F. (2004). Significance of asymptomatic tonsil asymmetry. Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 15243564.
- Guimarães AC, de Carvalho GM, Correa CR, & Gusmão RJ. (2015). Association between unilateral tonsillar enlargement and .... Critical reviews in oncology/hematology, 25487766.
- Cortez EA, Mattox DE, Holt GR, & Gates GA. (1979). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement. Otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, 530694.
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