Is it normal for a child to have a low-grade fever after adenoid surgery?

Apr 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
It is normal for children to experience a low-grade fever after adenoidectomy. Typically, the low-grade fever lasts for 3–4 days, with body temperature not exceeding 38.5℃, and physical cooling methods can be used to relieve the child's discomfort. If the low-grade fever persists beyond 3–4 days post-surgery, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention. If a wound infection occurs, anti-infective treatment may be administered under a doctor's guidance.

Low-grade fever generally refers to a mild fever, and adenoid surgery usually refers to adenoidectomy. It is normal for children to experience low-grade fever after adenoidectomy. Detailed explanation is as follows:

Children commonly develop fever following adenoidectomy, which is usually due to postoperative absorptive fever and generally not a cause for concern. Typically, the low-grade fever lasts for about 3-4 days with body temperature not exceeding 38.5°C. At this time, physical cooling methods can be used to alleviate the child's discomfort, such as warm water sponge baths or applying fever patches. If the low-grade fever persists beyond 3-4 days after surgery, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation for temperature monitoring and complete blood count (CBC) testing, to check for possible wound infection. If infection is present, anti-infective treatment may be administered under a physician's guidance using medications such as cefaclor granules or amoxicillin granules.

Adenoids, also known as pharyngeal tonsils or vegetations, typically proliferate actively between the ages of 2 and 6 and gradually atrophy after age 10. Adenoid hypertrophy may cause nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, snoring, and disturbed sleep in children. Therefore, some parents may opt for adenoidectomy for their child. Postoperative fever in children may also be caused by catching a chill. In such cases, it is recommended to visit a hospital for blood tests and receive appropriate treatment. Additionally, postoperative dietary adjustments are important, favoring bland and easily digestible foods. The child should stay warm and avoid catching a cold.