Are cold-like symptoms after a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy (such as a cough and congestion) normal?
Yes. Cold and congestion symptoms are normal due to recovering from anesthesia/intubation as well as increased production of secretions when recovering from surgery. Causes for concern include fever and neck stiffness. If you notice these symptoms, please contact our Nurse Line at 412-692-5460 option 4.
Is ear pain normal after a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy?
Yes. Ear pain is very common because the nerve that supports the tonsils and adenoids also supports the ears. Have your child take his or her post-op pain medication as scheduled. If pain persists after the prescribed post-op meds are finished, then please call our Nurse Line at 412-692-5460 option 4.
When can my child swim after tubes? What about after tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy?
With ear tubes, different surgeons give different direction. Most will allow swimming as long as your child uses earplugs. With tonsillectomy, your child should be able to resume swimming two to three weeks post-op.
Is it common that my child has worsening pain seven days post-op after a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy?
Yes, this is a common part of the post-op course. Often patients feel better between post-op days 2 to 6, and then “hit the wall” on day 7. For this reason pain medication is administered until post-op day 10 and possibly beyond, depending on the individual patient’s needs. If your child still needs pain medication more than 10 days following surgery, please call the our Nurse Line at 412-692-5460 option 4.
Is neck pain normal after an adenoidectomy?
Yes. This because of the location of the adenoids, which sit over the muscles that help control neck motion. Neck pain can continue for about a week, but it should be getting better at the seven-day post-op point. If pain worsens or is associated with fever, then please call our Nurse Line at 412-692-5460 option 4, as your child will need to be seen in our clinic.
How long should my child have bad breath after an adenoidectomy?
As long as 14 days
What should be done if my child has bleeding after tonsillectomy?
Any amount of bleeding (even a dime size) needs to be evaluated immediately in the emergency room. Your surgeon should be notified. Sometimes, children with tonsil bleeds are admitted to the hospital. A percentage of those admissions may need to return to the operating room for cauterization or suture placement
Is it normal for my child to have a cough after tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy?
Coughs can be common, primarily after the first several hours post-op due to having a breathing tube during surgery. Ongoing cough for several days post-op may occur due to swelling in the surgical site and post-nasal drip due to increase secretions. Before starting any over-the-counter cough remedies, please contact our Nurse Line at 412-692-5460 option 4.
How much should my child eat or drink after his or her tonsillectomy? What should I do if my child will not eat or drink?
It is less important that your child eat solids after tonsillectomy. It is more important to drink liquids and keep your child hydrated. Lack of interest in food and drink may be due to still being groggy from anesthesia and from post-operative pain. If you child does not want to eat or drink, this may be a sign that his or her pain is not being controlled adequately. Please ensure that you are following the frequency and prescribed dosage for pain medication. You know your child best — whether it is a favorite Popsicle®, slushy or their favorite juice, items like these will help keep your child hydrated.
When can I give my child ibuprofen products before and after tonsil and adenoid surgery?
Please do not give your child ibuprofen products for 7 days before tonsil and adenoid surgery. Ibuprofen may be used after surgery for most children. Your surgeon will let you know what pain medications you may give your child. For other surgeries, please consult your surgeon or call the Nurse Line at 412-692-5460 option 4.
