What happens if the tonsils are removed?
Dec 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Tonsillectomy may cause discomfort in the throat, reduced immunity, and excessive phlegm production. After tonsil removal, patients may experience sore throat, dryness, and a foreign body sensation in the throat. The procedure can lead to decreased immune and defensive functions, making individuals more susceptible to chills, colds, and fever. Continued consumption of spicy and irritating foods after surgery can increase secretion from lymphoid follicle tissues on the posterior pharyngeal wall, resulting in excessive phlegm production.
Removing the tonsils may cause discomfort in the throat, reduced immunity, and excessive phlegm production.
1. Throat discomfort: After tonsillectomy, sore throat commonly occurs and typically lasts for 15 to 30 days. Additionally, most patients experience symptoms such as dryness, a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, mild throat discomfort, and frequent throat clearing for some time following surgery. These symptoms tend to persist longer, usually around six months.
2. Reduced immunity: Tonsils play a role in immune function. Their removal may impair the patient's resistance, leading to decreased immunity and increased susceptibility to conditions such as colds, influenza, and fever in the short term.
3. Excessive phlegm production: After tonsil removal, consuming spicy or irritating foods—such as chili peppers and garlic—can significantly increase secretion from lymphoid follicle tissues on the pharyngeal wall, resulting in excessive phlegm production.
