Ever since my tonsillectomy I haven't been able to breathe out through my nose while laying flat on my back. I can breathe in through my nose just fine but when I breathe out it's as though a flap of something closes off my nasal area. My nose is basically a check valve now. At first I thought this was due to my swollen uvula but my uvula is no longer swollen, there isn't really swelling of any sort back there anymore. I'm at 20 days post op and this hasn't gotten better. I can't sleep on my side anymore because it hurts my shoulders and makes my arms go numb. What exactly is the problem here and how can I deal with it?
Hello dear Honeybd, you have typed your concern one year ago about the tonsillectomy and unable to exhalle through your nose. I am having exactly the same symptom right now and I am unable even to blow my nose and my voice is extremely nasal. And I also can not breath out through my nose. Would you please tell me how are your feeling now, did it get resolved on its own or what happened? Would you be kind to email me or text or call me and tell me because I am having panic attack right now and i need help.
Sincerely
Sirius
It's not uncommon to experience changes in breathing patterns after a tonsillectomy, particularly in the first few weeks of recovery. In some cases, swelling or inflammation in the throat or nasal passages can make it difficult to breathe normally, particularly when lying flat on your back.
In your case, it's possible that you are experiencing some narrowing or blockage of the nasal passages that is exacerbated when lying flat. This could be due to swelling, inflammation, or a buildup of mucus or other fluids. Alternatively, you may be experiencing some degree of nasal valve collapse, which can cause a similar sensation of obstruction during exhalation.
I would recommend following up with your surgeon to discuss your symptoms and concerns. They may want to examine your nasal passages and throat to evaluate for any signs of obstruction or inflammation, and may recommend further testing or imaging if necessary. In some cases, a referral to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist may be necessary to further evaluate and manage the issue.
In the meantime, you may find it helpful to sleep with your head elevated on several pillows, which can help reduce any swelling or inflammation and improve breathing. Using a saline nasal spray or nasal irrigation system can also help clear out any mucus or other debris from the nasal passages, which may improve breathing as well.
Can you tell me what you are currently doing to ease your symptoms?
It is normal to experience discomfort and difficulty swallowing after a tonsillectomy, and it can take some time for the throat to fully heal. The feeling of throat fullness and the sensation of something closing off your airway when you blow your nose may also be due to the healing process, as the tissues in your throat are still recovering.
It is good that you had a post-op appointment and your doctor did not seem to be concerned. It is important to continue following your doctor's post-operative instructions, including resting, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking any prescribed pain medications or antibiotics as directed.
Elevating your head while sleeping can help reduce swelling and discomfort, and avoiding sleeping on your back may also help. You may also find it helpful to drink plenty of fluids and eat soft, easy-to-swallow foods to help soothe your throat.