An abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection, resulting in a painful, swollen lump. To resolve the infection and reduce pressure, Incision and Drainage (I&D) is performed, where a small cut allows the pus to be removed. The body requires proper nutrition to heal the wound and fight the remaining infection. Dietary needs post-drainage are directly influenced by the abscess location and the procedure’s immediate effects.
Immediate Post-Procedure Timing and Hydration
After the I&D procedure, wait for any local anesthesia to wear off completely, which may take a few hours. For oral procedures, consuming food or liquid while the mouth is numb can lead to accidentally biting the tongue, cheek, or lip. Even with external abscesses, avoid eating immediately, as pain medication or anesthesia can sometimes cause nausea or vomiting.
Once feeling returns and nausea has passed, focus on rehydration with clear or cool liquids. Water, broth, or diluted juices are excellent starting points to prevent dehydration. If the procedure involved the mouth, avoid using a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge the protective blood clot over the wound site.
How Abscess Location Influences Diet
The necessity and degree of dietary restriction depend significantly on the abscess location. For a skin abscess on the arm, back, or leg, eating is generally not restricted, and a normal diet can be resumed as tolerated. The main concern is ensuring a healthy intake of nutrients to support systemic healing.
In contrast, drainage of an oral or dental abscess necessitates strict dietary modifications to protect the surgical site. The primary goal is preventing food debris from entering the incision and avoiding mechanical trauma from chewing. A peritonsillar abscess near the throat also requires a liquid or soft diet because swallowing will be painful for several days.
The soft tissues of the mouth are vulnerable to irritation and injury from food and temperature extremes. Chewing hard or tough foods places pressure on the healing area, which can break stitches and cause bleeding. Therefore, the diet must minimize the physical effort required to eat and the risk of irritating the open wound.
Recommended Dietary Adjustments
The diet following abscess drainage, especially oral procedures, should consist of foods that are soft, bland, and easy to swallow. Cool or room-temperature foods are preferred, as extreme heat can cause blood vessels to open up, potentially leading to bleeding. Soft, nutrient-dense options help maintain strength without compromising the surgical area.
Excellent choices include:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Well-cooked pasta
- Scrambled eggs
Smoothies and milkshakes are beneficial for incorporating fruits and protein, but must be consumed with a spoon rather than a straw to protect the clot. Consuming foods rich in protein, Zinc, and Vitamins A and C supports tissue repair and immune function.
Foods and drinks to strictly avoid include anything crunchy, such as chips, nuts, or hard candies, which can poke the wound. Spicy, acidic, or carbonated items should also be avoided because they can chemically irritate the open tissue. Alcohol and smoking are detrimental to the healing process and should be avoided entirely.
Warning Signs Related to Eating
While minor oozing of blood-tinged saliva is normal, excessive bleeding from the wound site while eating requires immediate attention. If active, bright red bleeding persists, apply firm pressure with a moistened gauze or a black tea bag. Uncontrolled bleeding should prompt a call to your healthcare provider, as the tannic acid in the tea bag helps constrict blood vessels.
Severe pain that worsens instead of improving, especially after eating, may indicate a complication. Other signs of a persistent or spreading infection include a return of swelling, a high fever above 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, or a foul-smelling discharge. Any difficulty swallowing or breathing, which could signal swelling blocking the airway, is a medical emergency requiring immediate care.