Tonsil inflammation is also known as tonsillitis.
Tonsils can be an important part of your body but a doctor may recommend that tonsils be removed, also known as a tonsillectomy.
When to have Tonsils Removed
Tonsillectomy can be performed on any age, including children and adults. The Nemours Foundation Symptoms of tonsillitis include frequent visits to the doctor for sore throats, trouble swallowing, and white, patchy blisters on the tonsils.
A patient might have mild fever, neck pain, or enlarged tonsils.
A doctor might recommend that the patient have their tonsils removed to eliminate these symptoms. Consult a dentist or medical professional if you have persistent problems with your tonsils and throat.
Tonsillectomy Procedure
The procedure will be performed by an ear, nose, and throat physician at an outpatient surgery center. The procedure usually takes between one and two hours. After the surgery, the patient will be discharged home.
Before undergoing surgery, there are some steps that patients should follow. Patients should refrain from taking aspirin-containing medications for at least two weeks before the procedure. They also need to provide a list of all medications they use regularly. Their doctor will give them instructions on how long they should avoid eating or drinking before the surgery.
An anesthesiologist will administer IVs to the patient on the day of surgery. The doctor will remove the right and left tonsils from the back side of the throat. The patient may feel some soreness or swelling after the procedure. You should allow at least 10 days for recovery.
Take Care of Your Tonsillectomy Patients
Within a few days, scabs may form at the site of the incisions. To ease soreness and rawness in the throat, the doctor may recommend painkillers. After tonsil removal, it is important to drink plenty of cold fluids and ice water. Avoid drinking from straws as this can be dangerous.
Soft foods and ice pops can be helpful in reducing irritation. To add calories to their diet, patients should consider drinking nutritional drinks if they lose weight.
It is important that the patient avoids eating chips, nuts, or any food that could cause irritation to the throat. In severe cases, bleeding may occur after surgery.
The patient should rest for at least two weeks following a tonsillectomy. After that time, they can resume normal activities. To check on patient’s healing, the doctor will schedule a follow up appointment.
Tonsillitis patients can get relief by having their tonsils removed. They can measure up to two- to three inches in diameter.
They can expect to have a less sore throat and to be able to stop snoring. If you have concerns about your sore throat, or snoring, consult your doctor or local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist.