You’ve probably heard of kids having their tonsils or adenoids removed—but how do you know when it’s actually necessary? In this episode of Talk It Out, we’re joined by board-certified pediatrician Dr. Anjuli Gans to break down everything parents need to know about tonsils and adenoids in children. From their role in the body to the signs that they might be causing problems, Dr. Gans helps make sense of this often confusing part of pediatric health.

Dr. Gans is an attending physician at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and the founder of Resilient Rascals. As a pediatrician and mom of two, she shares evidence-based, holistic advice to help parents make confident healthcare decisions.

In this conversation, we talk about what tonsils and adenoids actually do, how to spot signs of enlargement, and when it might be time to seek a referral to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat specialist). Dr. Gans also walks us through what to expect if your child needs a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy, how to prepare your child for surgery, and her best tips for a smooth recovery. Plus, Katie shares her personal experience having two of her children go through T&A surgery—and what she wishes she had known sooner.

If you’re wondering whether your child’s snoring, mouth breathing, or frequent illness might be related to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, this episode offers clarity, expert insight, and plenty of reassurance.

If your child snores, struggles with sleep, seems to get sick often, or has had tonsils and adenoids mentioned at a doctor’s visit—this episode will help you feel more informed and confident.

Mentioned in this episode:

• 🎧 Missed our last episode with Dr. Gans? Check out Episode 21 on Ear Infections + Speech Development

• How to Prepare for a Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy from resilientrascals.com

Connect with Dr. Gans: 

• Visit Dr. Gan’s website: resilientrascals.com

• Follow Dr. Gans on Instagram: @resilientrascals

• Dr. Gans' guides – we love these!

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