Advice and care after removal of the tonsils or tonsils

The tonsils consist of two tissue masses (specifically an accumulation of lymphatic tissue), whose main function is that of filter the different harmful germs that enter our body through the mouth or nose.

That is to say, we could call them the first defense system of our body, in a place where they constitute the Waldeyer ring, where precisely the lymphocytes quickly come into contact with the pathogenic germs.

We found them located on both sides of the throat, although what many people do not know is that we also have other types of tonsils distributed throughout the body. Not in vain, depending on where they are located, they receive different names.

The best known are the palatine tonsils, also called tonsils, and they are precisely located on both sides of the throat. But we also find the pharyngeal amygdala (located on the roof of the pharynx), the tubal amygdala (surrounds the pharyngeal end of the Eustachian tube), and the lingual amygdala (located at the base of the tongue).

In regard to its basic functions, the tonsils have an important immune function, being useful for the defense of our body by trapping bacteria, antigens and germs; they are also capable of producing antibodies; and process the lymphatic fluid which is then distributed in the different tissues of the lymphatic system.

Although its main function is to defend our body from the action of germs, bacteria and viruses, the truth is that The problem occurs when sometimes germs and bacteria settle in them, causing infections.

It is what is medically known as tonsillitis, which consists of an infectious disease that is acquired by contagion, and that causes the inflammation of the tonsils in addition to other related symptoms.

And what are those symptoms? Depending on whether it is a tonsillitis caused by viruses or bacteria, its symptoms tend to vary a bit.

Thus, for example, while in tonsillitis caused by a virus the onset of symptoms is gradual and progressive, with moderate fever generally lower than 39 ° C, reddening of the tonsils and moderate sore throat; when the tonsillitis has been caused by bacteria, its onset is rather abrupt, usually there is a high fever (higher than 39 ° C), the tonsils are very red with an increase in size and presence of whitish or small whitish plaques, and nausea and nausea may be present. vomiting

When is tonsillectomy done?

Although usually the infection of the tonsils is usually stirred without too many complications, with proper medical treatment its resolution is usually fast, it is possible that on certain occasions and in certain situations the extirpation of the tonsils, an operation that receives the name of tonsillectomy and that basically consists of that: the removal of the tonsils.

This operation is recommended especially when the size of the tonsils is very large, causing problems such as: they interfere with breathing and / or feeding, are a cause of apnea breaks during sleep, and favor the appearance of recurrent otitis or rhinitis.

Its extirpation is also recommended when they occur recurrent infections, especially throat. It is something that happens very often with children, who tend to suffer very commonly from tonsillitis.

In fact, Tonsillitis is mostly done in children, being uncommon that it actually takes place in adults.

Recommendations and advice after the removal of the tonsils

Recovery tends to take approximately 1 to 2 weeks, depending on whether only the adenoid glands are removed or not. So, for example, if only these glands are removed, the recovery is even much faster.

After the removal of the tonsils it is advisable to drink a lot of fluid, although at first it bothers or hurts a little. This will help the recovery to be faster, since you will be contributing to your body the much needed fluid to re-hydrate after surgery.

During healing it is normal for some common symptoms to appear: congested and runny nose, discharge from the nose (which may or may not have blood), ear and throat pain, bad breath, low-grade fever (which may last 1 or 2 days afterwards). of surgery), as well as swelling of the uvula in the back of the throat.

Eat soft foods and cold drinks

The discomfort in the throat can be relieved with soft foods and not very cold drinks, highlighting for example the mashed potatoes, pasta and apple sauce.

Also interesting are yoghurts, ice creams and sorbets, as well as water and natural fruit juice (yes, acidic drinks, such as orange juice and grapefruit are not recommended). Highlights foods such as jellies and flans.

Avoid these foods and drinks

Beverages such as orange, grapefruit and lemon juice are not recommended as they are very acidic, as well as alcoholic beverages. Since milk drinks are rich in fat, they can increase mucus.

On the other hand, hot and spicy foods are not recommended, as well as raw or crunchy cereals and vegetables.

Consume the medications prescribed by your doctor

Your doctor may have prescribed you painkillers and antibiotics. If so, take them on the recommended sheets and according to the recommended doses. While the pain reliever is helpful in relieving pain and helping you to swallow better, the antibiotic is useful in preventing infections.

Avoid medications like aspirin or ibuprofen since they can cause more bleeding. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.

Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy | Nucleus Health (March 2024)