If you are like most people, you may take breathing and swallowing food for granted until you start experiencing an array of throat disorders. Anxiety is common when a medical professional confirms that you need throat surgery.
All the same, you will be obliged to accept surgery if it will aid in eliminating the symptoms that you experience. Patients are put through throat surgery because of compromised breathing, chronic sore throats, and injuries associated with the throat.
Keep reading to discover some of the most common reasons why throat surgery may be needed.
Tonsillectomy
This type of throat surgery is performed on patients who suffer from frequent breathing difficulties, strep throat, and tonsillitis. These conditions mainly affect children rather than adults.
The sole purpose of the tonsils is to aid the immune system while fighting infections. A proficient surgeon may find it necessary to remove the tonsils in a tonsillectomy process should throat conditions become the norm.
Tonsillectomy can treat other problems such as loud snoring, bleeding tonsils and breathing difficulties while sleeping.
Thyroidectomy
As you may know, the thyroid is a gland that produces hormones responsible for regulating digestion, mood, heart function, and metabolic rate. The thyroid gland is typically located near the bottom of the neck.
You will most likely undergo this surgery if you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or a goiter. Other conditions that warrant this type of surgery include breathing difficulties and problems swallowing due to thyroid nodules.
Parotidectomy
The parotid glands located below the ears are responsible for saliva production. Most parotid tumors are non-cancerous, but upon noticing them, it would be worthwhile to deal with them as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing tumors of the parotid gland, persistent neck swelling, hoarseness, or swallowing difficulties, it only makes sense to enlist the services of an ENT doctor. Upon conducting a comprehensive examination, they will determine whether parotid surgery is right for you.
To Remove the Uvula (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)
Commonly referred to as UPPP, this surgery is conducted at the back of the throat. The surgeon removes the throat's soft tissues alongside the uvula. If you are unaware of the uvula, that tissue hangs when you open your mouth.
In addition, this surgery combats situations that arise when one stops breathing, especially during the night for a few seconds (obstructive sleep apnea). A recent study by the National Library of Medicine suggests that if sleep apnea is not treated, it may lead to stroke or other fatal heart diseases.
Other reasons why a patient may need throat surgery
In case of trauma or damage to one of the tissues, it needs to be repaired
If there are signs of abnormalities in the soft palate or throat
To remove tumors that may otherwise be blocking the airway
What activities should you undertake after throat surgery?
It would be most beneficial if you avoided dusty or smoky environments. If you must work, ensure that you put on a mask
Give yourself a grace period of 2 weeks before returning to work
Avoid strenuous activities like exercise, running, and weight lifting until two weeks are over
While keeping the throat moist and enhancing the healing process, drinking plenty of fluids regularly and running a cool-mist humidifier is imperative.
Remember to sleep with your head elevated
Partner With a Specialist Who Is an Expert in Treating the Ear, Nose, and Throat
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above in your throat or neck, the wisest thing to do is consult a Nashville ENT and allergy clinic. Schedule a consultation with Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee (OAT) - a group of medical specialists committed to providing their patients with ear, nose, and throat care.
A team of experts is on standby to help you get compassionate and patient care tailored to your needs.
