Are you recovering from a septoplasty? It can be a challenging process, which is what makes the relief of finally recovering worth it.
We all want to avoid costly, heavy, and intrusive infections, so if you experience these signs, you need to call your surgeon immediately.
Be aware that some of these are very normal during recovery, so don’t panic if you experience some of the side effects. Keep reading to learn more about common signs of infection after septoplasty surgery.
1. Swelling and Redness
Common signs of infection after septoplasty surgery include swelling and redness. Swelling occurs when the body’s natural response to infection results in an increase in blood flow to the area. It is generally accompanied by tenderness and warmth.
Redness occurs when white blood cells rush to the area to fight off the infection, resulting in inflammation and blood congestion. If there is an excessive amount of swelling or redness, it is important to contact a doctor as soon as possible.
In rare cases, the infection could result in the development of an abscess or rupture, which would require immediate medical attention. Regularly cleaning the incision area and monitoring the wound for any changes are important to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Pain and Fever
Pain and fever are common signs of infection after septoplasty surgery. Pain should be expected following the operation, but if a fever develops, this could be a sign of infection. If a fever of more than 100.4°F is present, contact your healthcare provider immediately for a diagnosis.
3. Bleeding and Discharge
Bleeding and discharge can be two common signs of infection following a septoplasty surgery. Patients may experience some degree of bleeding from the nasal passage for up to a week after surgery.
While this is considered normal and is part of the healing process, if the bleeding is persistent and ongoing, a physician should be consulted for possible further medical treatment.
A yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge from the nasal surgery passages may also be present and could indicate an infection. In this case, a physician should also be consulted immediately for appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics and local care of the nose.
4. Sniffling and Congestion
Sniffling and congestion are two common signs of infection after septoplasty surgery. During the surgery recovery period, a patient may be likely to experience sinus problems, congestion, and other discomfort.
Sniffling is a frequent symptom as the inflammation from the surgery creates a blockage in the nasal cavity. Additionally, the congestion may cause difficulty breathing, which can lead to feelings of stalled recovery.
However, these symptoms are usually resolved within a few weeks of the surgery.
5. Bad Smell and Taste
The bad smell and taste can be caused by a variety of different factors, including localized abscess or inflammation, foreign bodies in the nasal cavity, and obstruction of the airway.
Bad smell and taste are particularly common following septoplasty surgery when the mucosal lining of the nose has been disrupted by surgical incisions. You can ask for medical assistance at lasinusandsnoring.com for treatment.
Know the Signs of Infection After Septoplasty
Overall, it is important to monitor yourself closely after septoplasty surgery and be aware of any of the common signs of infection after septoplasty. If any of the above occurs, contact your doctor immediately.
Although it is unlikely to happen, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
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