Published on: 7/9/2025
What are the reasons for one tonsil being swollen while the other is not?
One tonsil might be swollen while the other is not due to infections, benign growths, or sometimes more serious conditions like lymphoma.
Explanation
When one tonsil is bigger than the other, it can be due to several reasons. Sometimes, infections can cause one tonsil to swell more than the other. Infections are common and often not serious.
However, other times, it could be because of growths that are not harmful, like cysts or benign tumors. These growths can make one tonsil appear larger.
In rare cases, a swollen tonsil could be a sign of something more serious, like lymphoma, which is a type of cancer.
If you notice one tonsil is bigger, it's a good idea to visit a doctor to check it out. The doctor can help figure out why one tonsil is swollen and if any treatment is needed.
(References)
- Cortez EA, Mattox DE, Holt GR, & Gates GA. (1979). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement. Otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, 530694.
- 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.
- Berkowitz RG, & Mahadevan M. (1999). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement and tonsillar lymphoma in .... The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology, 10527279.
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