Can you eat watermelon if you have pus in your tonsils?

Nov 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, whether a patient with tonsillar abscess can eat watermelon depends on the specific stage of the illness and the individual's physical condition. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. It is advisable to drink warm saline regularly to clean the throat and maintain hydration. The diet should primarily consist of light, liquid foods such as rice soup and vegetable or fruit juice, avoiding spicy and greasy foods. Ensure adequate rest.

In general, whether patients with tonsillar abscess can eat watermelon depends on the specific stage of the illness and the individual's physical condition. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. The details are as follows:

Patients with tonsillar abscess may consume watermelon if their condition is stable and there is no obvious bloating or diarrhea. Watermelon has high water content, which helps moisten the throat and relieve dryness and pain. It also contains vitamins and minerals that provide nutritional support, while its sweet taste can help improve reduced appetite caused by discomfort. When eating watermelon, remove the rind and seeds, cut it into small pieces, and allow it to reach room temperature before consumption to avoid irritating the throat with excessive coldness.

However, during an acute flare-up or if severe gastrointestinal discomfort is present, patients with tonsillar abscess should avoid eating watermelon. At this stage, throat swelling and pain are severe. The relatively high sugar content in watermelon may irritate the throat mucosa and worsen inflammation. Additionally, due to its cooling nature, consuming watermelon may increase the burden on the digestive system—particularly in individuals with weak spleen and stomach function who are prone to diarrhea—potentially exacerbating gastrointestinal symptoms.

In daily care, drink plenty of warm salt water to keep the throat clean and maintain hydration. Maintain a light, liquid-based diet such as rice broth or vegetable juice, and avoid spicy or greasy foods. Ensure adequate rest and avoid staying up late or overexertion. Practice good oral hygiene by rinsing the mouth with warm water after meals. Seek timely medical treatment if fever persists or throat pain worsens, to receive proper diagnosis and therapy.

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