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Home Instructions After Tonsillectomy
and Adenoidectomy
Recovery from Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy is a slow, uncomfortable process
that may last up to two weeks, especially with adults. You should take
your pain medicine as directed and do not take more then what is directed.
Do not take aspirin or any aspirin-related products such as Ibuprofen, Motrin,
Advil, Aleve, etc. These will thin your blood and increase your chances of
bleeding after surgery. Cepastat lozenges may be used to relieve pain.
You may also have ear pain which will fade with time.
The back of your throat will have a whitish coating. This is normal and
will fade. Also the uvula in the middle of the back of the throat may
swell and feel like a lump in the throat. This will go down in time.
The tongue and neck may also be a little sore after the surgery.
The main thing to watch out for now is heavy bleeding. Sometimes a scab
may fall off and some bleeding will occur. This usually will stop in 10 to
15 minutes. If it does not, don't panic. Sit calmly with the head
elevated and suck on ice chips and place ice on the neck. Heavy bleeding
will create blood clots and bright red blood. If it doesn't stop in 20 to
30 minutes, call the office or answering service at 828-250-9418 or
828-258-4539. Also fever greater than 101 degrees for 3 days or longer may
indicate an infection which may need to be addressed. Let the office know.
A low grade fever is common and is treated by the antibiotics provided.
Also contact the office if nausea and vomiting persists longer then one day.
The main task now is to stay hydrated by sipping on liquids all day long.
Start with ice chips and clear liquids such as apple or pear juice. Stay
away from acidic juices like orange or grapefruit juices. Also the clear
carbonated beverages may be used such as 7-UP or Sprite. Be cautious with
Gatorade because it has salts which may affect your blood electrolytes.
Next try: popsicles, sherbet, jell-o, soup, puddings, eggs, applesauce and other
soft foods. Within several days you may try soft vegetables and meats.
Avoid hot, spicy foods, rough textured foods, and hot drinks. Ensure or a
similar dietary supplement may be used by adults. You may use a straw.
Avoid any heavy activity or excessive straining for 10 days. Children may
return to school in 1-2 weeks. Adults may return to work in 1 week if tolerating
the discomfort. Exercise may resume in 10 days to 2 weeks.
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