“How do I know if my child needs their tonsils out?”

This is a common question and guidelines have changed over the decades. In general, most pediatricians suggest that 6 Strep throats in a year or 3 Strep throats per year for 2 or 3 years in a row are reasonable criteria. There are also additional criteria. If terribly enlarged tonsils alter the voice, removal can be helpful. Also, apnea (pauses in breathing longer than 10-15 seconds) while asleep overnight can benefit from tonsillectomy. Enlarged tonsils that require constant open mouth breathing instead of normal nasal breathing can justify tonsil removal as an option. The best way to know if your child needs his/her tonsils out is a good discussion with your child's doctor. Tonsillectomy is much less common today than a few decades ago.
Good luck in your search to have this question answered.

Marc

Per Otolaryngology guidelines, there are 3 reasons to take out tonsils: tonsillar cancer, sleep apnea, 6 or more episodes of strep throat in 12 months. Itchy throat most commonly indicates allergies. Try a daily allergy medication like Claritin and see if that helps.