When children have their tonsils removed, does it affect their eating habits?Dear Dr. Cory: When children have their tonsils tonsils, name commonly referring to the palatine tonsils, two ovoid masses of lymphoid tissue situated on either side of the throat at the back of the tongue. removed, does it affect their eating habits? Marysa Mumphrey Fort Worth, Texas Fort Worth is the fifth-largest city in the state of Texas, 18th-largest city in the United States[1], and voted one of "America’s Most Livable Communities. Dear Ms. Mumphrey: Following the removal of the tonsils, the throat will be a little sore for a few days. During this time, children should eat soft, easily swallowed foods. Cold foods and drinks may help the throat feel better. But after several days, children should be able to gradually return to their normal diet. Some children have an increased appetite increased appetite Hyperphagia, polyphagia after a tonsillectomy tonsillectomy /ton·sil·lec·to·my/ (ton?si-lek´tah-me) excision of a tonsil. ton·sil·lec·to·my n. Surgical removal of tonsils or a tonsil. because it is easier for them to swallow. If children do not regain their appetites, their doctor should be called. In the past, doctors removed tonsils much more frequently. Now they know that tonsils are helpful in fighting infections. The tonsils are part of the lymphatic system and contain white blood cells White blood cells A group of several cell types that occur in the bloodstream and are essential for a properly functioning immune system. Mentioned in: Abscess Incision & Drainage, Bone Marrow Transplantation, Complement Deficiencies that attack bacteria. Doctors consider removing the tonsils if a child has: * repeated strep throat infections * other throat infections that don't clear up with antibiotic medicine * enlarged tonsils that make swallowing or breathing difficult Sincerely, Cory SerVaas, M.D. |
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