The removal of tonsils, or a tonsillectomy, is done when the tonsils become sore or infected often. Removal may also be necessary when the tonsils are too large, which makes it difficult to breathe at night. Tonsils are two lumps that help the body fight germs. However, germs may also locate in the area, causing infections or difficulties. This means they need to be removed. Surgery is done in about 20 minutes.
Pain and Soreness
Most people spend a couple of days resting. Pain usually eases within two days, but some pain may flare up. Some soreness in the throat may last two or three weeks. There may be bleeding in the area and the wounds may initially leave a bad taste in the mouth. Some people have little white patches in the back of the throat that usually fall off within a week.
Fluids
You will be advised to drink plenty of fluids following the operation, but not until after a few hours when drinking is allowed. You may have to stay in the hospital overnight for observation as a precaution. It may be difficult to drink anything at first because it hurts in some cases, but only for a short time. The throat needs to be kept moist and the body needs fluids.
Foods
Along with fluids you will be restricted to eating soft foods that may include ice cream, gelatin, pudding, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, pasta and soups. Chewing gum may relieve pain and help in the healing process. For about 10 days, you should avoid citrus fruit juices, spicy foods, crispy foods or foods with hard edges, including pizza or chips. Avoiding these foods will prevent bleeding.
Protection
Pain relievers are recommended to relieve any soreness. But they should be painkillers suggested or prescribed by the doctor. Aspirin may aggravate bleeding. Antibiotics are usually taken to prevent infection. You should avoid catching anything contagious, so it is a good idea to avoid crowds and overexposure to other people during the days following surgery, the Mayo Clinic advises. Strenuous activity should be avoided for two weeks after surgery. Contact or rough sports are particular concerns for young people. Walking and other moderate exercises are fine and helpful.
Outlook
Removal of tonsils should result in less risk of upper respiratory and chest infections, laryngitis, ear infections, sinusitis and nasal allergies, according to Better Health Channel. Children may have a change in voice, including a more nasal sounding pitch. They may also be emotionally upset because of the operation itself. But they often overcome this with the soft foods they can eat, especially ice cream. A follow-up visit to the doctor is advised.
