Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Tonsils, adenoids, and uvula

Side and open-mouth views of throat and mouth, showing adenoids, uvula, tonsils, and tongue.

The tonsils and adenoids are made of lymph tissue in the throat. They help make substances (antibodies) that help the body fight infection. The tonsils can be seen on either side of the throat at the back of the mouth. The adenoids are higher in the throat and usually cannot be seen.

The uvula is the small, finger-shaped piece of tissue that hangs down from the soft palate in the back of the throat. It can usually be seen when the mouth is open wide.

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.