My only Rx following sx were Tylenol#3(codeine/caff) 1-2 tab q 4hrs and chlorohexidine washes BID.

My pain was almost non-existant in the hospital and therefore speech was ok, despite obvious tongue and throat swelling, 4 days post op my pain was manages at the 2-5/10 range, however the T3 have caused serious jitters, nausea, decreased appetite, lightheadness, palor and diaphoresis and dry heaves.

So I went off them and just took plain X strength Tylenol, I was taking 1 tablet q 4hrs with 12.5mg Gravol and the pain 24 hrs later shot up to 12/10!!! So I started back on them at 1/2 a tablet with 12.5mg Gravol q 4hr, dizziness with mobility, diaphoresis and slight tremour re-appearing. Pain scale 5-7/10. Now pain is increasing to 9/10 range so I have upped the dose to a full tablet again with 12.5mg PO of Gravol to offset the nausea and dizziness.

Worried about sleeplessness and constipation will obviously persist. Despite being a nurse and being able to offer sound advice to patients....suddenly when you're the patient...swiss cheese for a brain happens. I apparently become as stupid as a rock! :P

Should I carry on the course and see about finding that balance between pain and mobility function with the T3 and Gravol stupor....continue to add to the dose without compromising nutrition and restlessness and anxiety??

Any suggestions or words of wisdom? I have never taken T3 for more than 1 or 2 doses before, so this is new for me. I am small statured and have a cardiac condition and an anxiety disorder so the jitters are NOT welcome. I dont consume caffeine at all.

The pain is compromising my healing as I find myself in more pain when I attempt to speak and when I eat. Totally exhausted following any attempt to do either. But worried the Gravol may inhibit both as well....ugh!! I am consuming on average 500calories a day...and yes have lost almost a pound a day.

I live alone and need to be functional to prepare my 'meals' go shopping and such!!

Any idea how long the swelling and numbness/pain to the tongue last? I cant seem to find any answers/averages to the length of healing on this site or by asking my physicians team, they all seem to dodge the question, nor does the internet offer any suggestions.

How long did YOURS last? Even if your sx was more complex than mine it may give me a guideline of expectation to work towards.

Thanks Tracy




Tracy Dx @ age 47
Single No dependants
NS/Social ETOH
Clinical Study (early detection)
Dx July/09 Mod. Dysplasia (lichen planus)
Dx Sept/11 TisN0M0 SSC Lt Tongue
Sx Oct/11 CO2 Laser Glossectomy
Sx Mar/12 Release of tongue anchoring (Skin graft)
Lingual Nerve Damage