Can normal tonsils be seen?
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
The term "tonsils" usually refers to the palatine tonsils. Normally, the palatine tonsils are not visible because they lie within the tonsillar fossa in the lower part of the throat, covered by a layer of mucosal tissue. If the tonsils become infected or irritated, leading to inflammatory changes such as congestion, redness, and swelling—possibly accompanied by symptoms like pain or hoarseness—prompt medical treatment at a hospital is necessary to control the condition.
The term "tonsils" usually refers to the palatine tonsils. Normally, the palatine tonsils are not visible because they are located within the tonsillar fossa in the lower part of the throat and are covered by mucosal tissue.
On the lateral wall of the oropharynx lies a triangular depression known as the tonsillar fossa, formed by the palatopharyngeal arch and the palatoglossal arch, situated at the back of the throat. The lower portion of the palatine tonsil is covered by the palatoglossal arch, while its upper part is enclosed by the tonsillar capsule, surrounded by abundant mucosal tissue. Under normal circumstances, the tonsils cannot typically be seen even when the mouth is widely opened. Particularly in individuals with smaller palatine tonsils, which are deeply situated within the tonsillar fossa, they are even less likely to be observed.
If the tonsils become infected or inflamed due to irritation, resulting in congestion, swelling, and possibly accompanied by symptoms such as pain and hoarseness, prompt medical evaluation and proper treatment at a hospital should be sought to manage the condition.
