Why is this procedure done?
Your tonsils are glands in the back of your throat. They help protect you from infection. Sometimes, the tonsils get infected themselves. You may need to have your tonsils taken out. This procedure is a tonsillectomy. It may be done if you: ‚
- Often have tonsil infections
- Have breathing problems because your tonsils are too big
- Have sleep problems where you stop breathing for a few seconds at a time
You are likely to have problems with your adenoids when you have problems with your tonsils. The adenoids are another small gland in the top of your mouth. Your doctor may decide to take these out at the same time. ‚
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What will the results be?
You will have fewer sore throats. You may have less problems sleeping as well. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, you will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery. The staff will put an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. When you are asleep, the doctors put a tube in your mouth to help you breathe.
- A special tool will hold your mouth open. The doctor will use other tools to take out your tonsils. The doctor will make sure there is no bleeding. You may have your adenoids taken out at this time as well.
- The cut will be closed and you may have stitches.
- The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room after surgery and the staff will watch you closely. You may have to stay in the hospital for a few hours. Sometimes, you have to stay overnight.
- You may have soreness in your throat and stiffness in your jaws. Your doctor will give you drugs for the pain.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Stop smoking before and after the procedure. Smoking slows the healing process.
- Avoid heavy lifting and exertion for 10 days after surgery. Talk with your doctor about the right amount of activity for you.
What drugs may be needed?
Do not take any aspirin. ‚
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Prevent or fight an infection
- Help a runny nose
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Throwing up
- Total change in voice or hoarseness
- Swallowing problems
- Sleeping problems are not treated
- Lung problems
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Otolaryngology ¢ ˆ ’ Head and Neck Surgery ‚
http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/tonsilsAdenoids.cfm ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/ears/tonsil.html ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tonsillitis/pages/treatment.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚