A tonsillectomy involves the surgical removal of the tonsils, which are two small pads of tissue located at the back of the throat. This procedure is performed to address issues like frequent infections, chronic tonsillitis, or breathing problems caused by enlarged tonsils. Understanding the recovery period is a common concern for individuals undergoing this surgery.
Typical Recovery Duration
Recovery from a tonsillectomy generally takes about 10 to 14 days for adults. Children often recover more quickly, sometimes feeling better within a few days, while teens and adults may require the full two weeks.
The initial one to two days after surgery typically involve throat pain, a low-grade fever, and fatigue. Bad breath and difficulty speaking or hoarseness are also common during this period. Pain tends to be most noticeable during the first 8 days, and it may even worsen around day three or four due to increased inflammation and the formation of scabs where the tonsils were removed.
Around five to ten days after the procedure, scabbing occurs, and mild bleeding might happen as these scabs naturally begin to fall off. A white coating, similar to a scab, forms and typically detaches between 5 to 16 days. Snoring or mouth breathing is common for the first one to two weeks due to swelling, and a different voice quality may persist for two to six weeks.
Managing Post-Tonsillectomy Discomfort
Throat pain can be severe and may extend to the ears, neck, or jaw. Pain medication, often including prescribed narcotics or over-the-counter options like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, is used to control this discomfort. It is important to take pain medication regularly, especially in the first few days, and to avoid aspirin or other blood thinners for about two weeks due to bleeding risk.
Drinking plenty of fluids can help with pain and prevent dehydration. Cool, clear liquids, ice pops, and ice cream can be soothing and help with fluid intake. Soft, cool foods like yogurt, pudding, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs are often recommended for the first week or two. It is advisable to avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods, as well as hard or sharp items like chips, crackers, or nuts, which can irritate the healing area. Chewing gum may also help lessen muscle spasms and improve bad breath, which is common during recovery.
Rest is also beneficial for healing. A low-grade fever (99.0° to 101.0° F) is normal for the first few days. Using a humidifier at bedtime can help alleviate throat dryness caused by mouth breathing.
Resuming Daily Activities
After a tonsillectomy, a gradual return to daily activities is advised. It is common to feel tired for one to two weeks, and resting when fatigued supports the recovery process. Light walking can be beneficial, increasing blood flow and helping to prevent complications.
Most individuals need to take about 10 to 14 days off from work or school. This period helps reduce the risk of infection and allows the throat to heal. Strenuous activities, such as vigorous exercise, heavy lifting, jogging, or contact sports, should be avoided for approximately two weeks, as they can cause straining or put pressure on the throat. It is also recommended to avoid crowded places for about a week to minimize exposure to colds or other infections.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Excessive or bright red bleeding from the mouth or nose is a concern and requires immediate care. While small specks of dark blood in saliva are common, any significant amount of bright red blood or blood clots should be addressed immediately. Vomiting bright red or dark blood also indicates a need for urgent medical evaluation.
Difficulty breathing, especially if severe, is another serious symptom that requires immediate medical help. A fever above 101°F (38.3°C) or 102°F (38.9°C) should prompt contact with a doctor, as it could signal an infection or dehydration. Signs of dehydration, such as urinating less, feeling weak, or dizziness, also indicate a need to contact a healthcare professional. If pain becomes unmanageable despite medication, or if vomiting persists and prevents fluid intake, medical advice should be sought.