It is important to stay hydrated following a tonsillectomy, because dehydration may exacerbate throat pain and delay healing. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. When introducing new foods, avoid hard, scratchy foods that may harm your throat. Some possible risks include: On average, most people reach full recovery in about two weeks. According to the Associates in Otolaryngology, other soft, cool foods that soothe an irritated throat following a tonsillectomy are sherbet, custard and Italian ice. i got my 2 bottom wisdom teeth taken out on Thursday; the procedure was done by 1pm. Use of this website and any information contained herein is governed by the Healthgrades User Agreement. It is generally recommended to wait at least two weeks before consuming spicy foods, however, some people may be able to tolerate them sooner. Thomson Reuters. Within 1-2 days, add cold and soothing foods (ices, ice . Once you can safely tolerate clear fluids, you may advance to heavier liquids such as milk, creamed soups and cooked cereals. You can, however, minimize your discomfort by: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used liberally, but ibuprofen products (Motrin, Advil) should be avoided for 24hours after surgery because they can increase the chance of bleeding. Substitute sorbets, fruit pops, or fruit ices, which are non-dairy, for ice cream.Avoid carbonated sodas and citric juices because they will irritate your throat tissue and intensify your pain. The surgery does not involve removing the tonsils because the tonsils are part of the bodys immune system. As a result, your childs comfort level is usually very high. Children recovering from a tonsillectomy should be on a soft diet for seven to ten days. When Can I Eat Spicy Food After Tonsillectomy. Firstly, spicy foods can irritate the sensitive skin surrounding your tattoo and put you at risk of infection. Foods to Eat. Tonsillectomy is a safe and effective surgical procedure that will provide you with lasting benefits. What began as a just-for-fun idea turned into a successful small business & blog, all because we got too addicted at making chocolates. That email doesn't look right. Knowing the foods to eat after a tonsillectomy is essential to prevent discomfort and irritation, especially as the tonsils are located directly inside of the mouth towards the back of the throat. Is this an emergency? You will need to follow a liquid diet or soft food diet for several days after surgery. It is important that you drink enough liquids . of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. This may cause an infection. You have bad throat pain with drooling or voice changes. Although cereal is a crunchy food, I soaked my cereal in milk until the point of complete sogginess. Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of your tonsils. +a8O]^3'g(;3K2$G1A o PainThere's no doubt about it: tonsillectomy does not top the list of ways to have fun. Avoid eating citrus because the high levels of citric acid found in food and drinks, such as tomato juice and lemonade, can cause discomfort. How can I get nutrition? Prepare for the morning after by having some hypoallergenic wipes handy. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33219085/), Visitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information, To treat breathing-related sleep disorders, such as, To reduce the risk of infection in people with frequent or chronic. In general, recovery is more difficult for adults than children. A tonsillectomy takes about two weeks to fully recover from. Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Pancakes are fluffy and easy to chew. Avoid eating spicy foods for two weeks after a tonsillectomy. Eat cold things: Cold foods and fluids reduce swelling and pain. Eating, drinking, and swallowing are all avoided when the tonsils are frequently infected and hypertrophic. You should get out of bed frequently andreturn to normal activity as soon as possible. Usually it happens 4 to 8 days after surgery, but it can occur any time up until about 3 weeks after your surgery. People with the condition feel that all foods taste sour, sweet, bitter or metallic. My doctor advised that some patients avoid dairy while recovering because they believe milk products cause more phlegm (making it harder to swallow), but ultimately leaves the decision up to the individual. If your stomach is not upset, you may eat soft, plain foods such as gelatin, applesauce, ice cream, and mashed potatoes. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Remember to prioritize rest over preparing food. Eat soft foods: Steer clear of foods with hard or sharp edges, which can scratch and irritate a sore throat. A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove your tonsils. Most of the time, surgeons remove all portions of your tonsils during this procedure. Cold liquids and foods help soothe your throat. It usually goes away within a day or two. If the patient has tubes inserted, they should be wearing ear protection. A variety of salty foods, such as soups, broths, and French fries, can help you feel better and heal faster. Obstructive sleep apnea, as well as recurring strep throat, are frequently treated with tonsillectomies. . They can also help you cough up phlegm. Avoid harsh gargling or tooth brushing. After surgery, you may need to take antibiotics to prevent infections. Snoring may persist for 1-2 weeks because of temporaryswelling around the tonsils. The white material is a scab. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency. 2. Related: Nausea and . You may need one that contains a stronger anti-inflammatory. As you feelbetter, add soft bland items that are easy to chew and swallow (pasta, puddings, mashed potatoes, tuna or chickensalad, macaroni and cheese). Roasted sweet potatoes are soft, full of fiber, and delicious. They were required to undergo surgery in this case. Foods that are easy to chew and swallow should be added to your daily diet as soon as you feel you can tolerate solid foods. What can I eat after a tonsillectomy? endstream endobj 37 0 obj <> endobj 38 0 obj <> endobj 39 0 obj <>stream Get answers from Gastroenterologists and top U.S. doctors, Our doctors evaluate, diagnose, prescribe, order lab tests, and recommend follow-up care. Most sore throats go away on their own, but its important to see your doctor if you have a persistent sore throat that lasts for more than a week. Its also important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms: The best way to reduce throat soreness after tonsillectomy is to avoid the foods that make your throat sore. When drinking orange juice, avoid the bitter taste. Bland foods that should be easy on your throat include scrambled eggs, macaroni and cheese and mashed potatoes. These are all normal changes that will go away as your throat mends. You may slowly begin to eat solid foods after you can eat soft foods easily. You should also avoid foods that are acidic or spicy. They may also request blood tests. Your healthcare provider will give you general anesthesia to keep you asleep and comfortable during your procedure. For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). After a tonsillectomy, you should avoid eating anything too crunchy or acidic for a few days. Make sure not to add a lot of spices to these foods, because certain spices may irritate the lining of your throat and cause additional throat pain. Jackson, MS 39216 Chewing your favorite gum (it exercises the jaw muscles and lubricates the throat with saliva). Surgery can be used to correct abnormal tissue growth, or it can be used to remove tissue thats been causing problems. ActivityThere are no strict rules for activity after surgery other than to avoid contact sports or heavy exertion for about 2weeks. Sharp or scratchy foods, such as chips, may cause bleeding and increase pain. Then, for 10 days, go to soft, mushy meals (noodles, pudding, apple sauce) before returning to your normal diet. You should also see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms: These symptoms may indicate a lung infection or other serious health condition. The first few days after a tonsillectomy should be spent avoiding red-colored foods. Read on to learn more about what types of foods you can eat after . If you have a bleeding sensation from the back of your throat, you may develop a fever. If after eating spicy food your throat feels pain or irritation, it is best to avoid it until your throat has healed completely. Chewy Candy. DietDrink at least 4 to 6 eight-ounce glasses of liquid daily (Gatorade, fruit punch and non-citrus juices) to preventdehydration. After your tonsillectomy, your medical team will transfer you to a recovery area. Nausea and Vomiting After Surgery For the first couple of days after surgery, it can help to eat or drink cold and soft things. This is completely normal and will help you recover faster. Cold drinks and foods are a great way to soothe the throat and reduce discomfort. You should also avoid red colored fruits and vegetables. Continue the soft diet for 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. The white material is a scab. Instead, opt for soft foods and simple dishes. You have trouble breathing or swallowing. A fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 Celsius) that doesnt improve with medication. Many people wonder if removing their tonsils will have a negative impact on their immune systems. The common side effect of general anesthesia is nausea and vomiting. The tonsils are 2 large lumps of tissue in the back of your throat. Many people who have their tonsils removed feel nauseous as a result. Would love your thoughts, please comment. You should also see your doctor if your throat is swollen or feels tight. Sharp or scratchy foods, such as chips, may cause bleeding and increase pain. You have a high fever. Your throat will be sore for two weeks as a result of this treatment. You can help your child learn how to swallow fluids more easily by providing regular pain-relieving medication. My dentist told me "avoid spicy, salty, and crunchy . Dysgeusia can be caused by many different factors, including infection, some medications and vitamin deficiencies. Use OTC decongestants. I ate them scrambled, fried, poached, in an omelet, and in a frittata. . H\02IG?j H ,D3R?9KG_i-ty0-]9I~. Suck whatevers inside your throat to help with thick salivation, and sip small amounts of liquids frequently to aid in clearing your throat. #SpoonTip: Check with your doctor to make sure you are allowed to crush your pill. This is because its possible to have a throat infection that requires treatment. A Century-Old Tradition: Indulge In Iconic Pink Lindt Balls. Even foods that you know are safe for you to eat can still cause the soreness. These may be added for pain control 24hours after surgery if needed. Eating soft foods, such as rice or mashed potatoes, can help you avoid the soreness and resulting infection. A pain killer will help to make eating easier, so it is recommended that you begin eating after it has been used for 30 minutes. This may cause an infection. If you swallow or eat something too hard or too quickly, it can cause pain and irritation. You have swelling or pain in your face or neck. Beyond that, hot, cold, dairy, bubbly. If you're already having trouble with all-day nausea and queasiness, spicy foods may make things worse. You should avoid spicy foods and hot drinks for at least a week after your tonsillectomy. I can't eat solid/semi-solid food 12 days after tonsillectomy & adenectomy, what to do? 6.3k views Reviewed >2 years ago. A tonsillectomy is a one-day operation performed under general anesthesia (snoozing). Grains are important foods to eat after . The recovery period is usually two weeks, and youll have to stick to a soft diet. Write down any questions you have so you remember to ask them during your visits. For a twist, try these pumpkin protein pancakes. Coming to a Cleveland Clinic location?Hillcrest Cancer Center check-in changesCole Eye entrance closingVisitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information, Notice of Intelligent Business Solutions data eventLearn more. You have itchy skin or a rash. No chips, fries, tomatoes, coffee, tea, lemon orange etc. it has now been past 48 hours. . Foods to Give Your Child After a Tonsillectomy or Adenoidectomy . Other medications like Motrin Extra Strength can be purchased online and are less likely to cause stomach problems. The typical recovery time for an adult tonsillectomy is about two weeks. Foods with red coloring should be avoided for a week after tonsillectomy. You are not able to drink or are passing very little urine. This gives the body time to heal and reduces the risk of complications. How long will it take to eat semi-solid foods after a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy? The tonsil bed may look white or whitish. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Yes, I had to eat two full weeks of soft food. Ice cream is easy on the throat after procedures. Having your tonsils taken out isn't fun. After a week, you can resume a normal diet with the help of an ice pack on your neck. Copyright 2012. You may experience throat irritation as a result of these foods. ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 40 years experience Depends: Each person is different. How to Prepare for Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery. All Rights Reserved. Take well-cooked rice, soft bread without the crust and well-cooked pasta. Ive compiled a list of foods that can be eaten a few days after tonsillectomy. This may be caused by a throat infection. Stick to two or three foods that you can tolerate and dont overdo it on food preparation. 185 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10006, United States, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Casino-Style Chocolate Tasting: Have an Unforgettable Party with Your Favourite Treat, Making Birthdays Extra Special With Customized Godiva Chocolates, Discover The Rich Flavor Of Black Lindt Chocolate, Find Out How Many Calories Are In A Cadbury Easter Egg This Easter, Unlock Intense Flavor And Creamy Texture With Premium Lindt Chocolate. Adults should consume popsicles and drink cool liquids such as water, apple juice, and soft drinks as soon as they recover from tonsillectomy. He may suggest medicine to treat sneezing or allergies. Sharp and scratchy foods, such as chips, can increase pain and cause bleeding. This is a phenomenon that occurs quite frequently. After a few days of recovery, I was ready to eat something a little more solid, like pasta. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the Having a tonsillectomy can offer many benefits, including: While complications are rare, they can happen. All Rights Reserved, 9 Lansdowne Street, Suite 2Boston, MA 02215, your tonsils might need to come out later in life, How to Eat Cookie Dough and Feel Good About It, I Tried The New Arctic Zero Ice Creams and Here's What I Thought. The above information is an educational aid only. This is because red foods and drinks can mask signs of a bleed. I started Nunu Chocolates with the belief that the world is a better place when chocolate is involved. Next, theyll remove your tonsils. Last updated on Sep 23, 2022. Some OTC medications like Advil (ibuprofen) or Motrin (aprofen) are available over-the-counter. These foods can make . The best way to prevent throat soreness is to avoid the foods that make your throat sore. Tonsillectomy is sometimes done for the following reasons: The best way to prevent throat soreness after tonsillectomy is to avoid the foods that make your throat sore. In general, it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for most sore throats to feel better. The tonsils must be removed as part of a tonsillectomy. Gradually, other foods can be introduced as tolerated, but it is important to avoid anything that is overly spicy or acidic, as these can irritate the healing throat. For when your throat is healed, try these watermelon margarita popsicles! Cold liquids and foods help soothe your throat. If you have a persistent sore throat, you should see your doctor. Chick-Fil-A. Within 1-2 days, add cold and soothing foods (ices, ice-cream, frozen yogurt, Jell-O). hello! Fish. Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of your tonsils. Patients can typically return to a normal diet after their post-operation appointment with their doctor. Avoid milk and dairy foods if you have problems with thick mucus in your throat. You can also take medications to ease your pain. After this, you can return to a normal diet. These foods can cause the same symptoms as food allergies, so you may need to avoid them for a longer period of time. Begin by using clear liquids (water, non-citrus juices). The post-operative recovery period can last eight to ten days, depending on your age. Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. I had pain in my ear & jaw. Our providers specialize in head and neck surgery and oncology; facial plastic and reconstructive surgery; comprehensive otolaryngology; laryngology; otology, neurotology and lateral skull base disorders; pediatric otolaryngology; rhinology, sinus and skull base surgery; surgical sleep; dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery; and allied hearing, speech and balance services. Foods that are crunchy or have sharp edges (such as chips) are not a good fit. Complications are rare, but if they arise, your provider might keep you in the hospital overnight to monitor your progress. When your child can tolerate clear fluids, he or she can drink milk drinks. I am due a Tonsillectomy soon what's the best after care advice , i.e only eat certain foods, reducing swelling,reducing infection etc? Time is required for surgical site healing to occur. This can happen to all people and therefore surgery is required for removing them. The first few days are the most uncomfortable. A regular dose of pain relievers should also be administered. My surgeon advised me to eat soft and bland foods in addition to soft and bland foods. Pediatrics 44 years experience. Tonsillectomies arent as common today as they were a few decades ago. Is the scab forming? It helps keep you hydrated and keeps your throat from drying out, which prevents even more pain. You should avoid eating acidic, hard, or crunchy foods for at least a couple of weeks. Start wanting to move, do laundry, clean the kitchen. It will also help to drink cold liquids, so that you can keep your throat hydrated. Eat soft foods: Steer clear of foods with hard or sharp edges, which can scratch and irritate a sore throat. It is recommended that all drinks and foods be lukewarm or chilled to avoid hot or overly hot beverages. This is a normal side effect and should go away in a couple of weeks. For a more severe sore throat, you may need to see your doctor.