A tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils, two small tissue pads at the back of the throat. Often performed in children and adolescents, adults also undergo this procedure to address recurrent infections or breathing difficulties. The recovery period typically involves discomfort, and understanding its progression helps patients and caregivers prepare.
Understanding the Recovery Timeline
Recovery follows a predictable pattern, with pain often intensifying before subsiding. Pain is typically moderate initially, peaking between days 3 and 7 post-surgery. This intensification is due to a white or yellowish membrane, similar to a scab, forming over the surgical sites. As these scabs detach, typically around day 5 to 10, the underlying tissue can become more exposed and sensitive, leading to increased pain.
During this peak discomfort, other common symptoms may arise. Many experience referred ear pain, originating from the throat due to shared nerve pathways. Bad breath is also frequent, caused by healing scabs, and can persist for up to two weeks. Difficulty swallowing is a significant challenge, often reducing fluid and food intake. These symptoms are generally temporary and indicate that the throat is healing.
Alleviating Discomfort During Recovery
Managing discomfort is important for a smoother recovery. Regular pain medication, including over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen and prescribed medications, should be taken as directed. Consistent dosing, even at night, helps maintain steady pain relief. Taking medication 30-60 minutes before meals can also make swallowing less painful and encourage intake.
Maintaining adequate hydration is important to prevent dehydration, which can worsen pain. Cold liquids such as water, diluted juices (avoiding acidic ones), ice chips, or popsicles can be soothing and easier to swallow.
For diet, focus on soft, bland foods gentle on the throat. Recommended options include mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, cooked cereals, and soft pasta. Avoid sharp, crunchy, spicy, very hot, or highly acidic foods, as they can irritate healing tissues or dislodge scabs. Rest is beneficial, allowing the body to focus its energy on healing. Using a cool-mist humidifier can help keep the throat moist, especially during sleep, which may alleviate dryness and discomfort.
Urgent Concerns and When to Contact Your Doctor
While discomfort is expected, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Significant bleeding, characterized by more than just streaks of blood in saliva or small specks when scabs fall off, or the presence of bright red blood from the mouth or nose, requires prompt evaluation. Frequent swallowing, especially in children, can also indicate internal bleeding.
Signs of dehydration, including reduced urination, lethargy, dry mouth, or crying without tears, are serious. A high fever that persists or doesn’t respond to medication could signal infection or dehydration. Difficulty breathing, including shortness of breath or noisy breathing, is an emergency. Severe pain that is not alleviated by prescribed medication or persistent vomiting that prevents fluid intake are reasons to contact a doctor.