Q: My 6-year-old had a tonsillectomy and bled yesterday. Can a pediatrician check it today since the ENT is closed?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 6-year-old child had a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy about two weeks ago. Yesterday, my child experienced bleeding from the throat, so we rushed to the emergency room. The bleeding lasted for about 30 minutes but stopped while we were waiting. An ENT specialist examined the throat and said re-surgery was not necessary, so we returned home.
However, today my child mentions tasting blood in their throat. Our hospital's outpatient clinic is unavailable today, and the local ENT clinics are closed. Is it okay to take my child to a general pediatrician to have their throat checked?
Answer:
Hello. It is completely understandable that you are worried about the bleeding after a tonsillectomy, especially after a trip to the emergency room.
The period roughly a week or two after surgery is when the scabs begin to fall off, making it the time of highest risk for delayed bleeding.
Current Situation Evaluation:
• Tasting blood: This indicates there might be a small amount of oozing.
• No active bleeding: This means it is not an immediate emergency right now.
• Checked by an ENT yesterday: Re-surgery was deemed unnecessary, which is reassuring.
What You Can Do Today:
Yes, you can absolutely visit a general pediatrician today. They can perform a basic visual check of the throat and monitor your child's vital signs. While at home, you should also:
• Have your child sip cold water, which helps constrict blood vessels and soothe the area.
• Encourage them to rest and talk as little as possible.
• Strictly avoid hot, hard, or spicy foods.
Signs You Should Go Immediately to the ER:
Please monitor your child closely. Go to the nearest emergency room immediately if you notice:
• Continuous, bright red bleeding from the throat.
• The child is repeatedly swallowing or vomiting blood.
• The child becomes dizzy, lethargic, or pale.
• Any difficulty breathing.
Since your child's surgical site is still in the healing process, minor oozing can happen. Please have a pediatrician do a basic check today for your peace of mind, and make sure to follow up with your ENT specialist as soon as the clinic opens tomorrow for a thorough evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
