Why do you have tonsils?

The tonsils are two small, oval-shaped masses of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat, one on each side. They are part of the lymphatic system, which helps to fight infection.

The tonsils help to trap bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth or nose. When these microorganisms are trapped in the tonsils, they are destroyed by white blood cells. This helps to prevent infection from spreading to the rest of the body.

The tonsils also produce antibodies, which are proteins that help to fight infection. These antibodies are released into the saliva and help to protect the body from future infection.

In most people, the tonsils shrink in size as they get older. This is because the body's immune system becomes more efficient at fighting infection and the tonsils are no longer needed as much. However, in some people, the tonsils can become enlarged and cause problems such as difficulty breathing or swallowing. In these cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the tonsils.

Here are some additional functions of the tonsils:

* They help to produce saliva, which is essential for digestion and speaking.

* They help to filter out dust, pollen, and other particles from the air we breathe.

* They help to protect the voice box from damage.

* They play a role in the development of the immune system.

Overall, the tonsils are an important part of the lymphatic system and play a vital role in protecting the body from infection.