Post-Operative Uvula Swelling
A 36-year-old female recently underwent surgery to eliminate kidney stones. Following the procedure, she experiences significant discomfort from the ureter shunts, yet reports that the swelling and bruising of her uvula feel even more severe. She is questioning whether this condition is typical after being intubated during surgery.
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 1:31:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's common to experience some throat discomfort, including uvula swelling or bruising, after being intubated during surgery. This happens because the intubation tube can irritate the throat and surrounding tissues. However, significant discomfort can also indicate other issues, so it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely.
Explanation: Intubation helps maintain an open airway during surgery but can sometimes lead to temporary swelling or irritation in the throat, especially around the uvula. This is usually a mild and self-limiting side effect. If the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing, it may require immediate attention.
Next Steps:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated can help soothe throat irritation.
- Warm Saline Gargles: Try gargling with warm salt water several times a day. This can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and spicy foods that could further irritate your throat.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If swelling worsens, or if you experience extreme pain, breathing difficulties, or new symptoms such as fever, consider seeking medical advice promptly.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort if needed.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance!
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