In this article
- Frequency and impact of episodes guide the decision
- Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia
- Sore throat for one to two weeks is common
Assessment and treatment
- Take prescribed pain relief regularly
- Maintain fluids and follow dietary advice
- Follow school/work and activity restrictions
At a glance
Definition: Tonsil removal may be considered for selected recurrent severe infections or sleep-related obstruction.
Key takeaways
- Frequency and impact of episodes guide the decision
- Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia
- Sore throat for one to two weeks is common
Clinical steps
- Take prescribed pain relief regularly
- Maintain fluids and follow dietary advice
- Follow school/work and activity restrictions
Red flags: Any fresh bleeding from the mouth or throat after surgery requires emergency assessment.
Quick FAQ: When should I see an ENT specialist?
Any fresh bleeding from the mouth or throat after surgery requires emergency assessment.
How I assess this in clinic
I first clarify duration, severity, whether symptoms are one-sided or bilateral, and their effect on daily life. I then perform a focused ENT examination and compare the findings with frequency and impact of episodes guide the decision.
Endoscopy or audiometry is not required for everyone. I advise endoscopy when the nose, sinus, throat or voice box needs direct assessment, and audiometry/tympanometry when hearing or middle-ear function is in question.
A common misconception is that every ENT problem needs an antibiotic or an operation. Treatment should instead follow the diagnosis, functional impact, examination findings and evidence-based indications.
Do not wait when: Any fresh bleeding from the mouth or throat after surgery requires emergency assessment.
For patient education; not a substitute for individual diagnosis or treatment.