Diseases of the thyroid gland are very common, affecting millions of people. The most common diseases are an over- or under-active gland. These conditions are called hyperthyroidism (e.g., Grave's disease) and hypothyroidism. Sometimes the thyroid gland can become enlarged from over-activity (as in Grave's disease) or from under-activity (as in hypothyroidism). An enlarged thyroid gland is often called a "goiter." Sometimes an inflammation of the thyroid gland (Hashimoto's disease) will cause enlargement of the gland.

Tonsils are the two pink lumps of tissue found on each side of the back of your throat. (Open your mouth wide and say 'ahhhh' in front of a mirror to see them.) Each grape-size lump fights off the bad bacteria or germs living in your body.

Tonsillitis is an infection in one or both tonsils. One sign is swelling of the tonsils. Other signs or symptoms are: Redder than normal tonsils A white or yellow coating on the tonsils A slight voice change due to swelling Sore throat Uncomfortable or painful swallowing Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the neck Fever Bad breath

If you or your child's adenoids are enlarged, it may be hard to breathe through the nose. Other signs of constant enlargement are: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose most of the time, Nose sounds "blocked" when the person speaks, Noisy breathing during the day, Recurrent ear infections, Snoring at night, Breathing stops for a few seconds at night during snoring or loud breathing (sleep apnea). How Does Ear Nose and Throat Specialists Treat Tonsils and Adenoids? Bacterial infections of the tonsils, especially those caused by streptococcus, are first treated with antibiotics. Sometimes, removal of the tonsils and/or adenoids may be recommended. The two primary reasons for tonsil and/or adenoid removal are (1) recurrent infection despite antibiotic therapy and (2) difficulty breathing due to enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids. Treatment with steroids (e.g., cortisone) is sometimes helpful.