Lauren Stirling suffered from severe tonsillitis and tonsil stones for over three years, making her ill for weeks at a time. After one final bout, Lauren decided to do something about it and fortunately for her she knew just the place go to.
She tells her story here:
“I had suffered from tonsillitis and tonsil stones for a number of years. I’d be constantly prescribed antibiotics from my GP, which would work, but then a couple of weeks later it would return and I’d be just as ill again, if not worse. I asked my GP about having them removed but unfortunately I could not be referred.
“Luckily I have private medical insurance through my job, which happens to be at Spire Washington Hospital, so I decided to look into having my tonsils taken out that way. I’m a customer service adviser and communicate with patients every day so it was somewhat strange being on the other side.
“I was booked in for an appointment within a few days, with one of the ear, nose and throat specialists Mr Leontsinis. I explained how many episodes I had and told him that I had been suffering with tonsil stones. I explained that on some occasions I would even lose my voice not ideal when the main part of my job is speaking to patients every day. As soon as he examined me, he said that my tonsils needed to be removed.
“Following my consultation, surgery was booked for two weeks later. I received all of the relevant paperwork that explained everything about my surgery and what would happen on the day. When I arrived on the day of surgery I was greeted at reception and taken to my own private room.
“Both the consultant and anaesthetist came to see me to check I was OK and ready for surgery. I was then taken down to theatre and the next thing I knew I was waking up in recovery. It was over just like that.
“Before surgery I didn’t want to stay in hospital overnight I thought I’d just want to get back to the comfort of my own home. But due to the nature of the surgery I was required to stay, and I don’t know why I was so concerned. The staff continued to check on me and they looked after me with great care.
“I had breakfast the next day despite some difficulty swallowing it – and was discharged and home by 10am after a chat with the nurse and pharmacist.
“I’m now fully recovered and back to work. As I work at the hospital I’m aware of how brilliant our staff are but being on the other side as a patient has made me appreciate it even more. Having my tonsils removed was definitely the right decision and the process was made so much easier by coming to Spire Washington Hospital.”
Mr Leontsinis said: “Lauren had been concerned about her tonsils for some time. She booked in for a consultation using her private medical insurance.
“I recommended that Lauren undergo a tonsillectomy which is the only effective treatment for her condition, which can be painful and a nuisance.
“Lauren had surgery, recovered well and was back to work in within two weeks. She was pleased with the outcome when she visited me for her follow up appointment. This is always a huge relief – especially when the surgeon is operating on a work colleague in the same hospital!”
