The adenoids comprise a small gland that is located in the back of your nasal area, and they are part of the immune system especially when we are very young. They work to protect your child against inhaled viruses and bacteria. As we get just a bit older, the adenoids shrink, and their immune purpose diminishes.
The adenoids can become inflamed as the result of allergies or an infection, or they can become enlarged and interfere with breathing or sleeping. If this is the case, adenoidectomy surgery may be recommended by your allergist.
In an adenoidectomy, the surgeon removes the adenoids. It’s generally a procedure that is performed on children because the adenoids are often gone or are greatly minimized by the time a child reaches the teenage years. In rare cases, an adult may require an adenoidectomy.
Recovery Following the Procedure
Right after adenoidectomy surgery, a medical staff member will encourage you to drink clear liquids, eat ice pops, or suck on ice chips. Your surgeon will also give you prescription pain medication for use during the recovery period.
When you are still in the surgical facility after the surgery, the medical staff will monitor you for bleeding, vomiting, or high fever, and intervene if necessary. The surgery may be outpatient, in which case you will likely be able to go home later that day; otherwise, you may have to stay overnight for observation.
Recovering at Home After an Adenoidectomy
Once you return home, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids. The liquid will help ease soreness from the surgery and foster proper healing.
You can then eat as normal. At first, it may be more comfortable and soothing to eat soft foods like pudding, ice cream, yogurt, or soup.
Be sure to rest and relax the first few days after the surgery, and not do anything too strenuous. The doctor will advise you to avoid blowing your nose for a period of time after the operation.
While you recover, you may have a runny nose, foul breath, sore throat, or noisy breathing. Rest assured that these will subside. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon.
Benefits of Adenoidectomy Surgery
After you recover from adenoidectomy surgery, you should have fewer sore throats if you ever suffer from the flu, a cold, or a strep infection. You should also have fewer ear infections.
If enlarged or swollen adenoids were causing problems with breathing, this surgery can help you breathe much more easily once the adenoids are removed.
Allergist for Adenoidectomy Surgery in Georgetown, TX
Here at Georgetown ENT, our own Dr. Scott Franklin is an experienced allergist as well as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. For many years, he has helped both adults and children with everything from allergies to infections to every ear, nose, and throat problem.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child to see Dr. Franklin, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (512) 869-0604 or by filling out our appointment request form.
