Sinus Surgery Recovery Tips

Sinusitis is caused due to inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. The inflammation can be caused due to an infection, allergy or any one of the autoimmune problems. The classification of sinus infection is either made by duration or by location. Acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis are the sub-classification of sinusitis by duration. Chronic sinusitis is the one which lasts longer than three months and can be caused due to different diseases. For chronic or recurring sinusitis, sinus surgery may be recommended. It is recommended for patients, who do not get relief from drug treatment. A recent advancement in the treatment of sinusitis is a type of surgery, which is known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery. This sinus surgery procedure involves removing of anatomical and pathological obstructions, that are associated with sinusitis in order to restore normal clearance of the sinuses. The other type of surgery, which is used to treat sinus tissue is balloon sinuplasty, in which a balloon is used to expand the openings of the sinuses in a less invasive manner. It is important to note, that any sinus procedure is a delicate procedure, hence there are certain sinus surgery recovery tips, which need to be followed.

Tips for Sinus Surgery Recovery

In these types of sinus infection treatment, there is removal of diseased sinus tissue and creation of pathway for infected material to drain out from the sinus cavities. Normally endoscopic techniques are used for sinus surgery, which allows better and more precise visualization without using any external incisions. Hence, it is natural, that there is swelling, bleeding and discomfort after the surgery, but the recovery after the surgery is faster. Unlike in other surgeries, there is re-routing of existing pathways, therefore post operative care is as important as the surgery itself. It has been seen, that one of the common causes of failure of this surgery is poor post-operative care. It is very difficult to give the exact sinus surgery recovery time. Hence, it is important that post-operative care is taken, till the patient recovers completely

After the surgical procedure is over, the patient is taken to the recovery room, where a nurse is given the responsibility of monitoring the patient. Often the patient is allowed to go home on the same day of the surgery itself, after the patient has recovered fully from the effects of anesthesia. It is recommended, that the patient be brought home by a friend or family member from the surgical facility. Once the patient is back home, the first tip the patient should follow, is to lie down on the bed and place his head on an elevation. 2 or 3 pillows will have to be used for the same. Placing the head on an elevation will ensure, that the head is above the heart and it will minimize edema and swelling. If the patient wants to get out of the bed, it is recommended, that the patient use assistance to avoid any sort of strain.

In the sinus surgery recovery period, there is a possibility, that there is swelling on the nose, upper lip, cheeks or even around the eyes. The patient need not be worried about the swelling, as it is normal and will go away on its own. So that the swelling goes away sooner, the patient can make use of ice or chilled vegetable pack on the face, bridge of the nose and eyes as much as the patient can tolerate. This method often proves to be helpful in post-operative edema as well as sinus surgery recovery pain. Along with ice pack, it is also important, that the prescribed medicines are taken on time. Normally there are antibiotics prescribed, which help in preventing infection. Along with antibiotics, pain killers may also be given. If the patient is on any medicines, it is recommended to have a word with the doctor regarding the same, so that the medicines do not crash with the condition, the patient currently is in.

The patient will have to change the dressing, only if the dressing is saturated with blood, else it is recommended, that the dressing be left as it is. It is important to note, that nasal bleeding is normal during recovery. Talking to the doctor for specific instructions to change the dressing will help the patient to get the dressing done in the appropriate manner. The patient should eat light and soft food after the surgery. As far as possible, hot liquids or solids should be avoided till the patient recovers completely from the surgery. There are chances, that the patient will feel hungry immediately after the surgery, but eating immediately after the surgery should be avoided.

The last of the sinus surgery recovery tips is to consult the doctor, when the patient does not feel well. If there is any sort of unbearable pain, medical help should be sought for immediately. At the same, any self medication should be avoided, as it may have side effects and could hamper with the recovery process.