To have cancelled DC tonsillectomy because of my anxiety.

[TonsilTwister]

Of course I'm being unreasonable. But I'm also terrified.

It's feels like an unnecessary operation, he's not had tonsillitis this winter season so far, but has had swollen glands a few times.

Doctor advised to wait a year to see if he grew out of it. Family are saying to have them whipped out so he doesn't suffer in future.

So as not to drip feed, we've had a lot of loss in the past few years, it's affected me hugely, grief and anxiety with medical settings, and I'm scared to death of losing only DC. I usually manage well, being offered an appointment had set me off on a spiral.

What would you do?

@Technonan

I’ve has my tonsils out as an adult. It’s not that painful and apparently children have less pain because they heal faster. The pain I did experience was similar to having tonsillitis.

I had recurrent tonsillitis and at the end was visiting the doctor weekly for antibiotics.

There’s no reason why the OP should put her son through surgery if it’s not medically required.

I’m 61 and had a lot of tonsillitis and sinus trouble as a child until I had my adenoids out at 7 and tonsils out at 8. I was so much better afterwards.

If a medical expert has advised you on something, feel free to get a second opinion. If this is the best option for your child then you are very selfish not to do, and you know it as you've said. If needed, get the support of someone that you respect. You know what to do OP, do what's best for your child.

@Flillyflally My dad had his tonsils removed in his 30s and regretted it ever since. He has more throat infections now than when he had them. He's in his 70s now.

My DS had his tonsillectomy at 3 and was completely fine afterwards, just keep up with the pain relief he was eating burger and chips within 2 hours.
I had mine done at 18. It was horrenous, massive bleed a week later and had to be blue lighted in and have another operation to stop the bleed. If they are offering to take them out now while your DC is younger I would definitely have it done. Normally they are reluctant to do any "unnecessary" operations so they obviously think its necessary.

I work on a paediatric ENT ward. The younger kids and toddlers bounce back very quickly. And are running around the ward. Eating loads. Teenagers are dying ducks (genuine medical term) for ages and really struggle.