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After your child’s tonsillectomy, because it’s an outpatient procedure, you’ll be their primary caregiver. Here at Alaska Pediatric Surgery, your trusted pediatric specialists in Anchorage, we understand that this can be a daunting task if you’ve never been a caregiver before. Knowing what to expect as your child recovers can certainly ease your mind and knowing what you can do to help your child recover can make you both feel better. Today we’re going to give you some general tips on how to help your child recover after their tonsillectomy.

• Firstly, make sure to stay on top of your little one’s pain. The pain following a tonsillectomy can include soreness in the ears, jaw, neck, and generally a sore throat. Help your child stay ahead of pain by ensuring they receive regular doses of the medicine prescribed by their doctor. Another tip for helping with their pain is to run a humidifier in your child’s room. This will help reduce dryness in the air, while helping with breathing and the pain that will come with swallowing.
• Encourage intake of soft foods and fluids. One of the most important things you’ll need to do during your child’s recovery is to ensure they stay hydrated. You should offer them fluids and often. Try easy drinks like apple juice, water, and gatorade. The sooner your child is able to eat and chew, the faster they’re going to recover.
• It’s important that you recognize the normal side effects of surgery, too. After a tonsillectomy, your child’s throat will be irritated and swollen, and they may even have a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.