When do people remove their tonsils

For children in particular, tonsillectomies can be beneficial in the long run. The procedure prevents recurring tonsillitis as children reach their teen and adult years, and adults endure a longer recovery time—nearly twice as long as that of children—because more extensive healing is required.

Drake estimates that most children need a week to 10 days to recover, and adults often need at least two weeks.

Patients will need to get plenty of rest for the first few days after the procedure and avoid strenuous activities for two weeks. A severe sore throat is also common after a tonsillectomy, so, like Curious George, cue the ice cream.

If you or your child experiences frequent bouts of tonsillitis, talk to your doctor or make an appointment with an ENT specialist or a pediatric ENT specialist near you. What Is a Tonsillectomy? A nurse may use a pre-surgery checklist of questions, such as asking you to say your name and the reason for your surgery.

This is a standard procedure to ensure the safety of patients. Because a tonsillectomy is performed under general anesthesia, you or your child won't be aware of the procedure or experience pain during the surgery. The surgeon may cut out the tonsils using a blade scalpel or a specialized surgical tool that uses heat or high-energy heat or sound waves to remove or destroy tissues and stop bleeding. Tonsillectomies to treat recurring bacterial tonsillitis reduce the frequency and severity of strep throat and other bacterial infections.

Tonsillectomies to treat viral tonsillitis have a smaller benefit. Tonsillectomies to treat obstructive sleep apnea and other conditions not related to infections can improve outcomes when other treatment strategies have not been beneficial. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Inflamed tonsils Open pop-up dialog box Close.

Inflamed tonsils Tonsils are fleshy pads located at each side of the back of the throat. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. The doctor will then monitor the patient for any complications. A tonsillectomy can take about 2 weeks to heal. Speak with the doctor about any strange symptoms, as some risks come with surgery.

Overall, surgery can stop the pain and discomfort that can come with constantly swollen, infected tonsils. Tonsil infections can be mistaken for sore throats or colds. However, these swollen pieces of tissue can cause some long-term discomfort if ignored.

Look for the signs that are common with infection and see a doctor right away. The doctor may try some non-surgical treatment first, but a tonsillectomy may be the best course of action. What are your tonsils? Look for constant throat infections. However, like with other surgeries, there are some risks with this procedure. These can include:. Patients can experience some pain as they recover from a tonsillectomy. You might have a sore throat after surgery.

You might also feel pain in your jaw, ears, or neck. Get plenty of rest, especially in the first two to three days after surgery. Sip water or eat ice pops to stay hydrated without hurting your throat.

Warm, clear broth and applesauce are ideal food choices during early recovery. You can add ice cream, pudding, oatmeal, and other soft foods after a couple days. Try not to eat anything hard, crunchy, or spicy for several days after a tonsillectomy.

Pain medication can help you feel better during recovery. Take the medicines exactly as your doctor prescribes. Contact your doctor if you experience bleeding or run a fever after a tonsillectomy. Snoring for the first two weeks after the procedure is normal and expected. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing after the first two weeks. When tonsils become infected, the condition is called tonsillitis.

Learn more about tonsillitis causes, diagnosis, and treatment. There are many conditions that can cause white spots on your throat.