Yes, adults can have their tonsils removed through a surgical procedure known as a tonsillectomy. This procedure is performed when tonsils cause ongoing health problems that affect an adult’s quality of life. While more commonly associated with childhood, tonsillectomies for adults are safe and can provide significant relief from chronic issues.
Reasons for Adult Tonsillectomy
Adults often undergo tonsillectomy due to persistent tonsil-related health concerns. Chronic throat infections are a common reason, with individuals experiencing frequent sore throats. Recurrent bacterial tonsillitis, particularly strep throat, may necessitate removal when infections happen multiple times. This persistent inflammation can cause discomfort, bad breath, and enlarged lymph nodes.
Another indication is a peritonsillar abscess, a collection of pus near the tonsil causing severe throat pain and difficulty opening the mouth. While antibiotics and drainage may initially resolve the issue, recurrence can lead to a recommendation for tonsillectomy. Enlarged tonsils can also cause obstructive sleep apnea in adults by blocking the upper airway during sleep, leading to breathing pauses. Although obesity is a more frequent cause of sleep apnea in adults, enlarged tonsils can still contribute to this condition.
Understanding the Surgical Process
Before an adult tonsillectomy, patients undergo a routine health check and may have blood tests. Patients are instructed to fast after midnight the day before the procedure to prevent nausea from anesthesia. It is also common to stop certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and blood thinners, for about two weeks prior to surgery to minimize bleeding risk.
During the surgery, general anesthesia is administered. A tube is placed in the throat to keep the airway open, and a device holds the mouth open, allowing the surgeon access to the tonsils. Surgeons use various techniques, including traditional scalpel dissection, electrocautery (using heat to remove tissue and control bleeding), or coblation (which uses radiofrequency energy at a lower temperature). The tonsils are carefully removed from the surrounding muscle, and any bleeding is controlled. The procedure generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is often performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Navigating Adult Recovery
Recovery from an adult tonsillectomy can be more challenging than for children. Significant throat pain is common and can last for one to two weeks. Ear pain, known as referred pain, is also common because the same nerves supply both the throat and ears.
Pain management involves prescribed medications, including narcotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which should be taken regularly to stay ahead of the pain. Hydration helps with pain control and reduces the risk of complications like bleeding. Patients are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and broths, and to consume soft, cool foods like ice cream, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. Avoiding hot, spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods for at least two weeks is recommended.
Common temporary discomforts include bad breath, which can last up to two weeks, and a feeling of something stuck in the throat caused by swelling. Snoring and mouth breathing are also frequent during recovery due to swelling, and a humidifier can help alleviate throat dryness. Activity restrictions are important; strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and long-distance travel should be avoided for at least two weeks to reduce the risk of bleeding and infection. Most adults need to take about 10 to 14 days off work for recovery.
While rare, potential complications include post-operative bleeding, which can occur in about 5 out of every 100 adults and may require further medical intervention. Bleeding can happen anytime within the first two weeks, and any bright red blood or clots should prompt immediate medical attention. Infection is another rare risk, sometimes indicated by fever and pain that is difficult to control. Maintaining good hydration and following medical advice closely can help minimize these risks.