Adeno-Tonsillectomy postop instructions
Drinking and Eating
Drink plenty of fluids after the operation; children may need to be encouraged with this. Try to avoid acidic and fizzy drinks as well as hot drinks these will sting. Fluids will help ease the sore throat making swallowing easier and prevent dehydration. You may find ice blocks helpful.
Pain Relief
You will be given a prescription for pain relief from your surgeon before you leave the hospital. You may need regular pain relief for between 10 day and 2 weeks. It is important to take the pain medication regularly.
Bleeding
There is a slight risk of bleeding in the first two weeks after surgery, most commonly around day 7 to 10. It usually starts as spitting or coughing up some blood. If this occurs suck on some ice immediately. If it does not stop after 5 min or if the bleeding is brisk call your surgeon immediately or go to the nearest Accident and emergency clinic. In an emergency call 111 for an ambulance.
Rest
You may feel tired for the next 1- 2 weeks, it is important to rest. Avoid sports and swimming for at least 2-3weeks to reduce the risk of bleeding. Your surgeon will advise you when you can return to daycare, school, or work. It is usually 10-14 days after surgery.
General
The pain usually gets worse five days after the operation before it gets better again. It is common to experience earache after tonsillectomy; chewing gum can help. It is common to have smelly breath for 1 -2 weeks and the tonsillar sites will appear white for 2 weeks, this is normal. You may be prescribed antibiotics.
