Why Is One Tonsil Bigger Than the Other in My Child? A Parent’s Guide You ask your child to open their mouth because they have complained of a sore throat. Then you notice something unexpected: One tonsil looks much bigger than the other. It is an understandably worrying discovery. Parents may immediately wonder whether the tonsil is infected, whether it should be removed—or whether an uneven tonsil can indicate something serious. The reassuring message is that tonsil asymmetry in children is often benign . Tonsils are not perfectly symmetrical structures. They sit in spaces on either side of the throat called the tonsillar fossae, and differences in the depth and shape of these spaces can make one tonsil appear larger even when their actual volumes are quite similar. A UK evidence-based review published in the British Journal of General Practice in 2024 notes that most apparent unilateral tonsillar enlargement is associated with benign explanations such as anatomical v...
Why do my ears hurt whilst flying? Our ear has three parts- the external ear, middle ear and inner ear. The external ear and middle ear are separated by the eardrum. Usually, the pressure on both sides of the drum is equal, helped by the opening and closing of the Eustachian tube. Pressure changes in the cabin of an aeroplane during climbing and landing. Middle ear pressure becomes negative, especially when landing. When negative pressure pulls on the eardrum, it can become painful. What are other names of Barotrauma? Barotrauma is also known as Barotitis media or aerotitis media. What other symptoms can suggest Barotrauma? The most common symptom is a painful ear. This can be associated with decreased hearing, tinnitus and mild vertigo. In some cases, if associated with severe dizziness, severe deafness and bleeding from the ear due to eardrum perforation, you need to see an Ear Nose Throat Consultant immediately. Who are at increased risk of the painful ear whe...