Your child may be one of the 400,000 people in the United States per year needing a tonsillectomy. Most commonly used to help children sleep better, tonsil removal allows children with large tonsils to avoid breathing troubles that cause interruptions in sleep, behavioral problems and bed-wetting. Tonsillectomy also prevents throat infections from occurring. Once the 20-to-30-minute surgical procedure is complete, your child should awaken within an hour of being in recovery and will usually be sent home the same day.
Just After Surgery
Your child may come out of recovery with an upset stomach, nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects for the first 24 hours after the procedure. Also, her throat will be very sore, making swallowing difficult and painful. Give your child the pain medication prescribed by her doctor, according to directions. Wait 20 minutes after administering medication to provide liquids. Fluid intake is essential to your child's recovery; he needs between 24 and 64 oz. per day, but do not allow the use of straws.
The First Day or Two
Cool liquids are best for the first day or two. Offer ice chips, cold water, gelatin water, electrolyte sports drinks, apple juice, frozen ice pops and soda that has gone flat, or has no fizz left. Avoid liquids with red dye that can be confused with blood. Avoid acidic drinks like fresh soda and citrus juices, as well as milk products, which may increase mucus production in your child's nose and throat. You may also start to offer cold, soothing foods such as ice cream, yogurt, pudding, pudding pops, sherbet and custard.
Third or Fourth Day and On
Full recovery takes about two weeks, but after a couple of days your child will be improved enough to offer soft foods at room temperature, such as cooked noodles, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, cereal that has sat in milk until soggy, oatmeal, applesauce, pancakes, cottage cheese and canned fruits. Continue to avoid hard, crunchy foods, including chips, nuts, popcorn or crusts, and avoid hot liquids and spicy foods for two weeks after surgery.
Additional Tips
Follow each meal with a full glass of water to loosen any food bits that might be stuck to the surgical area, while aiding hydration. Streaks of blood are common the first few hours after surgery, then again seven to 10 days after the procedure when the scab from the surgical area comes off. Blood clots, coughing up blood or spitting up bright red blood all warrant a trip to the closest emergency room, though. And avoid rigorous physical activities for the full two-week recovery period.
Warning
Discuss any concerns or unusual behaviors with your child's physician.
Member Comments