Surgery
Douching means showering and is used in the nose for cleaning purposes.
Some operations in the nose leave the surface raw, rather like a graze. Unlike a graze on the knee, you do not get a dry scab with healing underneath. Instead, the scab gets very soggy with the mucous that the nose produces. The mucous can dry and form a crust. Bacteria can collect user the crust causing infection that can interfere with the healing process.
In order to keep your nose clean and healthy after your surgery it would be useful if you could douche your nose.
For the first two weeks after your operation it would be a good idea to do this three times a day and then gradually reduce the frequency as the amount of mucous and crusting decreases.
It is normal for your nose to feel blocked for the first two to three weeks after your operation, until the lining settles down. Your nose may also run a lot for the first few days with blood stained mucous. It is also normal for you to feel some pressure around your nose and forehead.
To douche your nose, make the following mixture:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
Add the above ingredients to a pint of cooled boiled water.
Scoop some of the solution into your cupped hand or a spoon if you prefer and sniff the solution up one nostril and into your throat. Spit it out.
Don’t worry if you swallow any as it is harmless. Continue until there are no more crusts or mucous and then repeat the procedure with the other nostril.
Some people find that the solution stings at first but this usually settles after a few days.
If you have been prescribed any drops, you should instil them a few minutes after douching.
Further information
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