Nasal and Sinus Surgery (Discharge Advice)

1. Rest during this period, physical activity may cause bleeding.
2. You will need 1 week off work.
3. Pain levels vary after surgery – most people are surprised by the lack of pain. However, it is recommended that you take regular Panadol. Stronger medication will also be prescribed.
4. Mr Grey may also prescribe antibiotics, nasal ointment or steroid medications (Prednisolone) for the post-operative period.
5. Avoid Aspirin for 1 week, smoking, alcohol & swimming in a chlorine pool – until after your first post-operative visit
6. The day after surgery you need to flush the nose with a saline solution. Do this gently for the first five days and only blow the nose with a snorting action with both nostrils open. You will be given a box of Flo. This will be provided by the hospital. The instructions for its use will be in the packet.
   
   Repeat at least 4 times per day. Alternatively, you can formulate your own nasal douche with the Formula below:
   • One mug of boiled water
   • One teaspoon cooking salt (don’t use table salt because it may contain additives)
   • Half teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
   Dissolve salt and bicarbonate of soda. Allow solution to cool until lukewarm. Place solution in the nose using teaspoon or syringe or empty nasal spray bottle. Gently blow nose or allow itto run out of mouth. Solution may be stored in the refrigerator, in a clean glass jar, for several days.  Shake and re-warm before each use.
7. After five days you can flush and blow the nose more vigorously.
8. Make an appointment to see Mr Grey two weeks after surgery.

Nose Bleeds

Attempts to stop the nose from bleeding may be helped by

1. Sitting forwards with the mouth open to allow the blood to drip from the mouth - try not to swallow blood.
2. Pinch hard the fleshy/flexible part of the nose.
3. Apply an ice pack over the bony bridge Apply an ice pack over the bony bridge part of the nose (a pack of frozen peas may be used) and suck an ice cube.
4. Try to remain calm and rest quietly.
5. If after 20 minutes it has not stopped, call Mr Grey or your General Practitioner.

Having stopped the nose bleed, try to avoid

1. Blowing the nose (for up to 1 week).
2. Sneezing through your nose – keep the mouth open.
3. Hot and spicy foods and drinks, including alcohol for 2 days.
4. Heavy lifting, straining or bending over – eg: to tie shoelaces.
5. Vigorous activities – rest quietly.
6. Fingering the nose – the only thing allowed up the nose is the tip of a finger covered in antiseptic cream, or Flo saline solution.

If you have any concerns after discharge, please call our rooms on 9388 7474.

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