Common surgery getting too common

Here we go again. If they can’t fix it, they want to cut it out. Talk about overly-aggressive care.

A new study says that adults suffering from frequent sore throats could benefit from having their tonsils removed. ¹ This surgery, called a tonsillectomy, is already the second most common surgery performed on children.

Tonsillectomies are performed when a patient has recurrent tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils. Researchers say that rather than continuing to treat chronic tonsillitis, doctors should just remove the tonsils completely. They say that adults who undergo tonsillectomies will have fewer sore throats and miss fewer days of work. Not exactly life-saving stuff.

To understand why this is just another one of the millions of medical diagnoses, procedures and treatments that are based on questionable scientific evidence, and in some cases carry grave risks (like going under general anesthesia) that outweigh the potential benefits (like fewer sore throats), you need to know more about tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis can be caused by either a virus or bacteria. If it’s caused by bacteria, antibiotics are prescribed. If it’s caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help. But chances are your doctor will prescribe them anyway, possibly setting you up for antibiotic resistance — which very well may be a factor for many patients with chronic tonsillitis

And now, as if unnecessary medication wasn’t bad enough, there’s talk of recommending surgery.  What’s next? A skin graft for a minor cut? A hysterectomy for menstrual cramps?

7 tips to avoid surgery

Of course some surgeries may be necessary — but really should only be considered after all less aggressive options have been pursued. Why? Because the human body is a scientific marvel. Its ability to heal itself is incredible — if given the right tools.

But when was the last time your doctor offered you advice on how to avoid getting sick in the first place? Thankfully, there are numerous ways you can boost your immune system on your own, including immune-enhancing supplements and foods. Here’s the short list:

Take the magic foursome: This refers to vitamins C, D and F (linolenic acid), and calcium. To find how it works and how to take it, see this post.

Eat more fruits and veggies: Healthy food is like premium gasoline for the body. Fruits and vegetables boost antibody response. Antibodies attach to things like bacteria, viruses and parasites and neutralize their negative effects.

Supplement with zinc: This powerful immune-booster is plentiful in beef, but if you don’t eat meat, be especially sure to supplement.

Eat more garlic: Garlic is an antimicrobial agent and immune booster.

Sleep: Not getting enough sleep is an immune system drain. Get the recommended amount of sleep for your age.

Don’t smoke: Smoking basically compromises your entire immune system. Beware secondhand smoke as well.

Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption predisposes you to a wide range of infections.

[1] Tonsillectomy can improve quality of life — EurekAlert