Identify indications for tonsillectomy.

1. Recurrent tonsillitis: Tonsillectomy may be recommended for individuals who experience frequent episodes of tonsillitis (usually defined as 7 or more episodes in one year, 5 or more episodes per year for two consecutive years, or 3 or more episodes per year for three consecutive years).

2. Enlarged tonsils causing obstructive sleep apnea: Tonsillectomy may be recommended for individuals with enlarged tonsils that are causing obstructive sleep apnea, a condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep.

3. Chronic or recurrent sore throat: Tonsillectomy may be considered for individuals who experience chronic or recurrent sore throat that does not respond to other treatments.

4. Tonsil stones: Tonsillectomy may be recommended for individuals who have frequent or severe tonsil stones (also known as tonsilloliths), which are small, hard, white or yellowish formations that can form in the crevices of the tonsils.

5. Peritonsillar abscess: Tonsillectomy may be recommended for individuals who have a peritonsillar abscess, a painful collection of pus near the tonsils that can cause severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and fever.

6. Tonsil cancer: Tonsillectomy may be recommended as part of the treatment for tonsil cancer, a type of head and neck cancer that affects the tonsils.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if tonsillectomy is the appropriate treatment option for a specific individual based on their medical history and symptoms.

Chronic or recurrent tonsillitis with significant symptoms
- Recurrent episodes of sore throat (typically more than 4 per year)
- Severe symptoms, including high fever, difficulty swallowing, and significant pain

Obstructive sleep apnea or other airway obstruction
- Enlarged tonsils that block the airway
- Snoring, difficulty breathing during sleep, and daytime sleepiness

Failure of conservative treatment
- Tonsillitis that does not resolve with antibiotics or other conservative measures

Other indications
- Peritonsillar abscess (infection in the area around the tonsils)
- Quinsy (a collection of pus in the area behind the tonsils)
- Chronic halitosis (bad breath)
- Tonsillitis caused by certain bacteria, such as group A streptococcus (GAS)
- Tonsillitis associated with rheumatic fever
- Suspicion of cancerous growth in the tonsils