Tonsillectomy with or without Adenoidectomy Discharge Instructions

Things to expect

Severe pain is normal for the first 7-10 days after surgery.
Very bad breath is a normal part of the healing phase after surgery.
Ear pain is frequently experienced by many patients and is related to the throat and the ear sharing sensory nerves.
The normal scab in the back of the throat will look white and sometimes "fuzzy".
Frequently children will refuse to eat food in the post-operative period. This is okay as long as they are drinking plenty of fluids.
You should drink enough fluids to urinate at least 3 times daily.

Use the pain medicine prescribed by the doctor as directed. Click HERE for over-the-counter medications.
Eat soft foods for the first week, longer if needed due to pain.
Avoid carbonated beverages, acidic foods, and salty foods as this can worsen the pain.
Call Dr. York's clinic to make a post-operative appointment for four weeks after surgery.
Call immediately if you experience bleeding from the mouth/throat.
This happens in 3% of tonsillectomies and can require an emergent but simple surgery to control.
No strenuous physical activity for 2 weeks to minimize risk of re-bleeding.
If not urinating 3 times daily, you must drink more fluids, or seek care in the ER for IV fluids if this isn't possible.