Sinus precautions
1209 West 5th Street, Suite 100 Austin. TX 78703 P: (512) 391-0011 F: (512) 391-0031
Why these precautions matter
Sinus communications normally close on their own — but failing to follow these instructions may compromise your final outcome. If symptoms persist or recur, call our office promptly so we can re-evaluate your condition.
2 Weeks
No nose-blowing for two full weeks
This is the most critical precaution. Pressure from blowing your nose can disrupt healing and reopen the sinus communication.
- Do
- Take all prescribed medications as directed
- Sneeze with your mouth open if you must sneeze
- Take Sudafed 60 mg every 6 hours for congestion (if directed)
- Eat soft foods and chew on the opposite side
- Call us if nasal bleeding is extensive or recurring
- Do Not
- Blow your nose for two weeks
- Suppress a sneeze — let it out through your mouth
- Use a straw
- Smoke
- Spit for several days
- Medication
Important
If medications were prescribed following your procedure, take them exactly as directed on the label. Do not skip doses or stop early.
Nasal congestion
If directed by Dr. Eggleston, take Sudafed 60 mg every 6 hours to relieve sinus pressure and congestion. This helps reduce pressure buildup that could affect the healing sinus.
- Nose Blowing & Sneezing
Pressure in the nasal passage is the primary risk to healing after a sinus procedure. Avoid blowing your nose for two full weeks, or for as long as Dr. Eggleston directs.
- If you need to sneeze
Try to suppress it, but if you cannot — sneeze with your mouth wide open. This releases pressure through the mouth rather than building it up in the nasal passage.
Nasal bleeding
A slight amount of bleeding from the nose is not uncommon after a sinus procedure. However, call our office immediately if the bleeding is extensive or keeps recurring.
- Diet & Restrictions
Eat soft foods and chew on the opposite side from your procedure site. Avoid putting any pressure or suction in your mouth.
No straws, no smoking, no spitting
Suction and pressure in the mouth — from straws, smoking, or spitting — can dislodge the healing tissue and reopen the sinus communication. Avoid all three for several days following your procedure.
- What to Expect
Sinus communications — small openings between the mouth and the sinus — will normally close on their own as healing progresses. Following all precautions gives the tissue the best possible environment to seal naturally.
If healing does not occur on its own
Some sinus communications do not resolve without intervention and may require a minor surgical procedure to close. This is why it is critical to follow Dr. Eggleston’s instructions carefully and to call if symptoms persist or return.
Failure to follow sinus precautions is the most common reason healing is compromised. Your cooperation directly affects your outcome.
After-hours emergencies — Dr. Eggleston
(512) 391-0011 ext. 103
Available after hours for urgent concerns