Mastoid surgery aftercare- various aspects-
Clean your hands with soap and water before you touch the ear.
* If there is an incision located behind your ear, it is important to clean it three times a day using hydrogen peroxide, and subsequently apply an antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin, Polysporin, Neomycin, Bacitracin, etc. ) for a duration of ten days. This incision should remain dry for 36 hours following the surgery.
* Keep water out of the ear canal until directed otherwise by your doctor. To wash your hair, insert a cotton ball into the ear canal and cover it with petroleum ointment to create a seal.
* If you have a pressure dressing on your ear, it should be removed 36 hours post-procedure unless you receive other instructions.
* It is likely that you will be given ear drops following surgery. When applying ear drops, lie down with the affected ear facing upwards and stay in this position for two minutes to facilitate the absorption of the drops. A cotton ball can be used for brief periods to catch drainage (such as while sleeping) or when exposed to excessive dust and dirt. Avoid using the ear cotton continuously and for extended periods.
* Ear drainage may appear reddish brown to brown colored, but it typically becomes clear and ceases within a week or two.
* Keep your head elevated while sleeping to help reduce swelling in the ear.
* Avoid blowing your nose. Any secretions in the nose should be pulled back and expelled through the mouth. Do not pinch your nose to avoid sneezing; instead, sneeze with your mouth open. Refrain from forceful exhalation similar to what is done when playing a wind musical instrument.
* For three weeks, do not engage in sports or vigorous physical activities (such as exercise or sexual intercourse), and refrain from returning to heavy work. Avoid straining all the time for three weeks. You should not travel by air until your doctor advises otherwise.
* Stay away from being exposed to colds or respiratory infections.
* You may experience bouts of vertigo (a spinning feeling) or dizziness (a lightheaded sensation) for several days. Take measures to prevent falls.
* Nausea might occur for up to 36 hours following general anesthesia.
* Your hearing may fluctuate, either improving or diminishing during the first six weeks. It is normal to notice cracking and popping in the ear, as well as a sensation that your head is “in a barrel. ”
* A nerve related to taste passes through the ear, so it is common for taste sensation to be slightly altered for several weeks or months after the surgery.
