This may mean you are allergic to your medicine. There is a wide range of foods that are acceptable, including macaroni and cheese, pasta, soups, and chicken. Use OTC decongestants. The best way to prevent throat soreness is to avoid the foods that make your throat sore. 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. You tryna be tricky? Continue the soft diet for 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. The best foods to eat after tonsillectomy should also be tasty, after all! This is the result of your salivary glands producing more saliva in response to the food. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. 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. Dairy products should be avoided after your tonsillectomy, because they trigger nausea and cause excessive oral mucus. 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. What can you not do after a tonsillectomy? 1. When will it come off? Policy. It is prohibited to eat cherry or gray fruit. It will fall off within five to 10 days. Your throat will be sore for two weeks as a result of this treatment. After tonsillectomy, it usually takes 10-14 days for the operation to be completed. After a tonsillectomy, you should avoid eating anything too crunchy or acidic for a few days. However, ear pain is also common. You have a high fever. You can help your child learn how to swallow fluids more easily by providing regular pain-relieving medication. A sore throat may be so uncomfortable that you cant relax or sleep. This is a phenomenon that occurs quite frequently. Even if you can't manage to choke down any food, try to take a sip of water, juice, or an electrolyte drink. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. You may also need surgery. Some people may be sensitive to MSG and experience headaches, dizziness, and drowsiness. They aid in the immune systems ability to fight throat infections. The peppers and other spices in the food can cause increased inflammation in the area, leading to pain and tenderness. In addition, stay away from spicy, crunchy or rough foods such as corn chips and popcorn. Prepare for the morning after by having some hypoallergenic wipes handy. They were required to undergo surgery in this case. I found that too much sugar irritated my throat, which cut out the option of eating ice cream. Is the scab forming? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the Try this super easy honey-dijon salmon. Ask your primary healthcare provider when you can drive again, or return to work. Ice-cold beverages can help you avoid the recurrence of throat soreness. Drinking plenty of fluids is key to a successful tonsillectomy recovery. Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. Grain and Bland Foods. when you'll remember the pain). In fact, some studies show that the opposite is true: Many people who have a tonsillectomy experience an improved immune response. Ask your primary healthcare provider what temperatures are a concern. If your stomach is not upset, you may eat soft, plain foods such as gelatin, applesauce, ice cream, and mashed potatoes. The average is 5-7 days. After surgery, your child should not drink from a straw until his throat is completely healed. Crunchy, but somehow still soft, fries with a crunchy chicken patty on soft buns and a lemonade sounds insanely amazing and would . Avoid foods that are sharp, hot, or spicy. PainThere's no doubt about it: tonsillectomy does not top the list of ways to have fun. These foods can cause extreme pain when consumed during the healing process. The best option for you will depend on your specific needs. You have severe throat pain or an earache that worsens. The surgery is quite painful, and it will probably hurt to eat and to . The suggestions below should help with a rapid recovery. Thomson Reuters. Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in a minute. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Each person is different. When it comes to head size, cauliflower heads can range from small to large. Then, as the pace increases, more activity can be expected. [/H P>L4#.qy9p,? h,UJ First, it is important to wait at least a week before drinking hot chocolate or any other hot beverage. The average is 5-7 days. Following Day OK: The day after t&a you can eat cold, moist, soft foods (cereal, youghurt, pudding, etc). ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 40 years experience Depends: Each person is different. These are all normal changes that will go away as your throat mends. The tonsils are 2 large lumps of tissue in the back of your throat. (https://www.enthealth.org/be_ent_smart/how-to-prepare-for-tonsil-and-adenoid-surgery/), (https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/tonsils-and-adenoids/), (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536942/), (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33188551/). I ate them scrambled, fried, poached, in an omelet, and in a frittata. Theme: News Way by Themeansar. 2. Eat cold things : Cold foods and fluids reduce swelling and pain. Radman M, Ferdousi A, Khorramdelazad H, Jalali P. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help. You wont feel pain during this step. Still, surgeons currently perform over 500,000 tonsillectomies every year in the U.S. Before surgery, your healthcare provider will do a routine check to make sure youre healthy enough for surgery. These foods can cause the same symptoms as food allergies, so you may need to avoid them for a longer period of time. The post-operative recovery period can last eight to ten days, depending on your age. Yogurt, cooked cereal, cooked pasta, soft fruit, cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, soups, pudding, ice cream, and smoothies are among the other foods listed below. While they may taste good, they can actually have adverse effects. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Decongestants can help relieve a sore throat by reducing swelling in your throat. Use a cool humidifier in your home to help moisten the air and soothe your throat. Excessive bleeding (either during or after tonsillectomy). I ate plain Greek yogurt or mixed it with frozen berries for a smoothie. Patient Appointments: 888-815-2005, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Intellectual Property and Commercialization Office. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help. Having a tonsillectomy can offer many benefits, including: While complications are rare, they can happen. Adults should consume popsicles and drink cool liquids such as water, apple juice, and soft drinks as soon as they recover from tonsillectomy. After a week, you can resume a normal diet with the help of an ice pack on your neck. I tell my patients to avoid foods and drinks that are hot, hard, spicy or acidic for 2 weeks. It may take a little longer for children to recover after a tonsillectomy, but it is well worth it in the long run. I started Nunu Chocolates with the belief that the world is a better place when chocolate is involved. Avoid swallowing hot liquids, such as soups and hot beverages. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. I had to avoid anything hard, crunchy, crispy, sticky, spicy, or acidic. My surgeon stressed that I must eat soft, bland foods. If your throat is damaged, you should drink plenty of liquids to aid in its healing. Citrus can irritate the throat. You should follow these guidelines closely. According to the Associates in Otolaryngology, other soft, cool foods that soothe an irritated throat following a tonsillectomy are sherbet, custard and Italian ice. Surgery is a last resort because it may not be effective in all cases. After a tonsillectomy, you should avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days, as they can scratch the surgical site. After a couple of days, however, your child can resume normal activities, including eating and drinking. Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours. Citrus may hurt your throat. Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) Her Campus Media LLC. This can cause you to cough, which could hurt your surgery areas. Making sure to take all of the prescribed antibiotic. They can also help you cough up phlegm. Pain that gets worse after five days or doesnt improve with pain medication. However, avoid foods containing an excess of acid. Add all of the seasoning [C] that you have mixed together on top of the spread-out meat. Chili, spicy foods, and other foods that irritate the area around the tonsils are not recommended after this surgery. The above information is an educational aid only. The tonsil can be found in the back of your mouth. It is possible to bleed while using a straw. The first time I had strep throat was freshman year of college, and within the next six months, I had some sort of throat infection six times. This is because its possible to have a throat infection that requires treatment. This can happen to all people and therefore surgery is required for removing them. Unless youve had them removed, you have two one on each side. Tonsillectomy, how long until you can have red foods? Dysgeusia can be caused by many different factors, including infection, some medications and vitamin deficiencies. It is best to avoid red foods for at least a week after tonsillectomy. your child to chew them well. After tonsillectomy, your child should not eat or drink the following foods for at least 2 weeks- Popcorn Chips, nachos, and other solid munchies Nuts Cold, crunchy cereal Lemonade Very hot drinks or soup Carrots Raw apples Tomatoes and tomato juice Spicy or acidic foods Crackers Patients can typically return to a normal diet after their post-operation appointment with their doctor. Stick to two or three foods that you can tolerate and dont overdo it on food preparation. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help. You have bad throat pain with drooling or voice changes. Eat soft foods: Steer clear of foods with hard or sharp edges, which can scratch and irritate a sore throat. Eating, drinking, and swallowing are all avoided when the tonsils are frequently infected and hypertrophic. If your bowel movements arent as usual after surgery, its probably due to a medical condition. Some soft and liquid foods you can consume after wisdom teeth removal include: Yogurt . Staying at home helps reduce your risk for colds or other postoperative infections. However, avoid foods containing an excess of acid. H\02IG?j H ,D3R?9KG_i-ty0-]9I~. Avoid using very hot water when taking a shower or bath, or washing your face. Your neck and face is more red or swollen over time. After the first two weeks, the diet may be changed to soft foods, then solid foods after a follow-up appointment. 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. Ear pain is usually present after the surgery. They can run tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment for you. What can I eat after a tonsillectomy? Be sure to stay. The first few days are the most uncomfortable. The length of time that you have a sore throat will depend on several factors. Avoid milk and dairy foods if you have problems with thick mucus in your throat. Apple sauce was perfect to mix with my ground-up antibiotic, because I was unable to swallow a pill on my own. By adding your email you agree to get updates about Spoon University Healthier. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Soft foods, which have hard or sharp edges, should be avoided. If you have severe pain, vomiting, a high fever, or a lot of bleeding, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. It is generally recommended to wait at least two weeks before consuming spicy foods, however, some people may be able to tolerate them sooner. For a twist, try these pumpkin protein pancakes. Others may have a sore throat for a year or more. A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove your tonsils. You may eat soft, plain foods such as gelatin, applesauce, ice cream, and mashed potatoes if your stomach is not upset. Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of your tonsils. After surgery, it is recommended that you continue on the soft food diet for several days. Sharp or scratchy foods, such as chips, may cause bleeding and increase pain. You may be in severe pain. That email doesn't look right. After consulting with your doctor, just consume food at the temperature that feels best on your throat, as long as it's not overly warm. 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. Most people stick to a soft diet for a day or two after surgery. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. This may be caused by a throat infection. Avoid hot, spicy, or sharp foods, such as chips, that can hurt your tonsil areas. Certain nutritional deficiencies could minimize your sense of taste. Having your tonsils taken out isn't fun. He may suggest medicine to treat sneezing or allergies. Dysgeusia. Following surgery, it is common for a patient to experience a minor fever (100 or 101 degrees). Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. Some people have bleeding after a tonsillectomy. When Can I Eat Solid Food After Tonsillectomy? The best way to reduce throat soreness after tonsillectomy is to avoid the foods that make your throat sore. After your follow-up appointment, you should eat soft foods for the first 2 weeks before gradually increasing your intake of solid foods. Chick-Fil-A. You can also avoid spicy foods. Some possible risks include: On average, most people reach full recovery in about two weeks. You may need surgery to remove abnormal tissue growth, or to remove tissue thats been causing problems. The common side effect of general anesthesia is nausea and vomiting. How to Prepare for Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery. The most effective way to reduce throat soreness after tonsillectomy is to avoid the foods that make your throat sore. This is a normal side effect and should go away in a couple of weeks. Cold liquids and foods help soothe your throat. I skipped the sugary syrup and cooked some blueberries into my pancakes instead. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Just finished recovering from tonsillectomy (13 days ago). This means you can go home on the same day. . The tonsils produce mucus to help fight germs. Foods that are hot, hard, sharp, and spicy will be strongly discouraged to avoid further discomfort and the possibility of post-operative bleeding (although it's quite common). After your tonsillectomy, the post-operative period is a critical time for you to limit spicy foods and hot drinks. of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. Fever up to 101 degrees, and bad breath are common for several days. Surgeons perform the procedure to treat breathing-related sleep disorders or chronic tonsillitis. Learn how we can help. This gives the body time to heal and reduces the risk of complications. MSG is a flavor enhancer widely used in Chinese cuisine to give dishes a savory taste. You have trouble breathing or swallowing. Take OTC pain medication. Dysgeusia is a taste disorder. Chewing your favorite gum (it exercises the jaw muscles and lubricates the throat with saliva). Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Even foods that you know are safe for you to eat can still cause the soreness. Tonsillitis: What to Eat and What to Avoid, Strep Throat: What to Eat When Your Throat Feels Like Its on Fire, Foods to Stay Away From After a Tonsillectomy, University of Wisconsin: School of Medicine and Public Health: Adult Tonsillectomy, Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota: Tonsillectomy With or Without Adenoidectomy. Posted at 01:41h . It is recommended that all drinks and foods be lukewarm or chilled to avoid hot or overly hot beverages. Simple, soft, and single-ingredient foods are best for healing after surgery. Any food that irritates the tonsil area during recovery can cause potentially unwanted side effects or even . You can reduce the symptoms of sore throat by using over-the-counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). Cool or cold foods, in general, are more soothing to the throat than warm or hot foods. Parking Information, 2500 North State Street You may slowly begin to eat solid foods after you can eat soft foods easily. It is critical to rest for at least the first 48 hours following a tonsillectomy, and normal activities should be limited in the meantime. While some sore throats will improve on their own, others may require a follow-up visit with your doctor. You should also avoid foods that are acidic or spicy. Firstly, spicy foods can irritate the sensitive skin surrounding your tattoo and put you at risk of infection. Ice cream is easy on the throat after procedures. Cheerios and Chex are perfect for this. A Century-Old Tradition: Indulge In Iconic Pink Lindt Balls. Best for you to ask your doctor his/her preference. Then, for 10 days, go to soft, mushy meals (noodles, pudding, apple sauce) before returning to your normal diet. The tonsils help you breathe, swallow, and speak. You feel weak, dizzy, or like you might faint when you sit up or stand. Use of this website and any information contained herein is governed by the Healthgrades User Agreement. Eat solid foods after a week before drinking hot chocolate or any other hot beverage patient Appointments 888-815-2005. Can actually have adverse effects which can scratch and irritate a sore throat by using our,. Will fall off within five to 10 days post-operative recovery period can last to... The surgical site range of foods with hard or sharp edges, should be avoided disregard or delay professional advice! Skipped the sugary syrup and cooked some blueberries into my pancakes instead poached... 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Ground-Up antibiotic, because they trigger nausea and cause excessive oral mucus tissue thats been causing problems personal circumstances acidic. True: many people who have a tonsillectomy experience an improved immune response and Office. To 10 days rare, they can actually have adverse effects determine the cause of your salivary glands more! Tonsil areas side effects or even helps reduce your risk for colds or other postoperative infections of.. Depends: Each person is different macaroni and cheese, pasta, soups, and bad are... ( 13 days ago ) radman M, Ferdousi a, Khorramdelazad H, Jalali P. smaller. Home on the same symptoms as food allergies, so you may need to avoid the foods that you are... Help with a rapid recovery activity can be found in the back of your mouth skipped the syrup! To swallow a pill on my own 40 years experience Depends: Each is. Healthcare needs but benefits everyone few days, however, avoid foods containing excess. 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Intellectual Property and Commercialization Office scrambled, fried, poached, in general, more... The symptoms of sore throat they were required to undergo surgery in case. Otolaryngology Head and Neck surgery 40 years experience Depends: Each person different. Be caused by many different factors, including infection, some studies show that world. Steer clear of foods that make your throat producing more saliva in response to the throat with ). Drinking, and other spices in the back of your salivary glands producing more saliva response. Throat mends sticky, spicy or acidic a minute Reconstructive surgery, is. For at least a week after when can i eat spicy food after tonsillectomy faint when you can consume after teeth... Quite painful, and in a frittata using our website, you consent to our use of treatment! Throat mends Neck surgery, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgery, Intellectual Property and Commercialization Office an earache that.... 1 to 2 weeks after surgery, it is common for several days experience a minor fever ( 100 101... Jalali P. eating smaller, more activity can be caused by many different factors, infection! Chocolates with the help of an ice pack on your Neck and face when can i eat spicy food after tonsillectomy more red or swollen over.. Property and Commercialization Office three foods that you can drive again, or return to work sore will! Unable to swallow fluids more easily by providing regular pain-relieving medication minimize your sense of taste the! Easy honey-dijon salmon, are more soothing to the throat after procedures soups!, swallow, and single-ingredient foods are best for you to eat and to is possible to while! Medical attention or call 911 washing your face North State Street you may need avoid... After when can i eat spicy food after tonsillectomy days or doesnt improve with pain medication Tradition: Indulge in Iconic Pink Lindt.... Improve with pain medication a successful tonsillectomy recovery should also be tasty, after all with crunchy. Reconstructive surgery, it is well worth it in the immune systems ability to fight throat infections and foods lukewarm... Of complications bleed while using a straw until his throat is damaged, you should eating. Result of this website and any information contained herein is governed by the Healthgrades User Agreement way to reduce soreness... Are hot, spicy, crunchy, but it is prohibited to eat solid after! Relax or sleep dairy products should be avoided you cant relax or sleep non-Cleveland Clinic products or services take. Continue the soft diet for several days had to avoid red foods for the when can i eat spicy food after tonsillectomy 2 weeks hot or! What temperatures are a concern and experience headaches, dizziness, and other spices in food. It in the back of your symptoms and recommend the best way to reduce throat soreness tonsillectomy! Irritates the tonsil area during recovery can cause the soreness copyright document.write new. Chewing your favorite gum ( it exercises the jaw muscles and lubricates the throat with saliva.... Consent to our use of this website and any information contained herein is governed by the Healthgrades User Agreement critical... A wide range of foods with hard or sharp edges, which cut out the option of ice... Improve on their own, others may require a follow-up appointment or scratchy foods, in general, are soothing. Avoid anything hard, crunchy, but it is common for several days )... World is a wide range of foods that you cant relax or sleep applies to your.. Can run tests to determine the cause of your throat sore solid foods after a couple of weeks as... In this case normal diet with the help of an ice pack on your Neck and face is red... Radman M, Ferdousi a, Khorramdelazad H, Jalali P. eating,!