A tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed in children. It is typically done to treat frequent throat infections or issues with breathing and sleep. While the surgery itself is routine, recovery at home can be challenging. Knowing what to expect and how to help your child can make the healing process smoother. Here’s what you should know about tonsillectomy recovery.
Tonsillectomy Recovery: What You Should Know
1. Pain Management
Pain is expected after surgery, but children do not need to suffer through it. Sore throats are the most common complaint, but pain can also be felt in the ears and jaw. Your child’s doctor will prescribe or recommend pain medicine in advance so you can be prepared.
Giving medications on a schedule, rather than waiting until pain gets severe, can help keep your child comfortable.
2. Keep Them Hydrated
Maintaining hydration is one of the most important parts of tonsillectomy recovery. Children are at higher risk of dehydration because swallowing may hurt, and they may not want to drink. Encourage frequent sips of cool or room-temperature fluids. Avoid hot drinks, acidic juices like orange juice, and carbonated beverages, as these can irritate the throat.
3. Feed Soft Foods
Swallowing will likely be painful for several days. Offering soft, easy-to-swallow foods can help. Good options include applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yogurt, smoothies, or broth-based soups. Crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods should be avoided until your child’s throat has healed.
4. Plan For Rest
Children will need extra rest after surgery. Plan for quiet activities at home and avoid running, biking, or sports for at least two weeks. Adequate sleep at night and naps as needed during the day will support healing.
5. Monitor for Nausea and Vomiting
Some children experience nausea after surgery due to anesthesia or pain medications. This may occasionally cause vomiting. If nausea is ongoing or your child is unable to keep fluids down, call your doctor, as dehydration can develop quickly.
6. Watch for Bleeding
Mild bleeding, such as small streaks of blood in saliva, can happen, especially about a week after surgery when the scabs in the throat begin to fall off. However, bright red bleeding or blood clots should be treated as an emergency. Call your doctor or go to the nearest emergency department right away if this occurs.
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your child’s doctor immediately if you notice:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent fever
- Signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination, dry lips, or unusual sleepiness
- Severe pain not relieved by medications
- Significant or ongoing bleeding
Get Support During Tonsillectomy Recovery
Tonsillectomy recovery takes time and patience, especially for children. With proper pain control, fluids, soft foods, and rest, most children begin to feel better within 7–10 days. However, full recovery can take up to two weeks. Every child heals at their own pace, so when in doubt, call your pediatrician for guidance. They are there to support you through this time, answer your questions, and ease your fears.
Don’t worry about tonsillectomy recovery – schedule an appointment today!