Nasal Moisturization with Nasal Packing
Yes, you should add nasal moisturization when using nasal packing, as keeping the nose and packing moist with nasal saline sprays throughout the day can reduce crusting, help resorbable packing melt away, and make complications less frequent. 1
Benefits of Nasal Moisturization with Packing
- Reduces crusting around the packing material
- Helps resorbable packing dissolve properly
- Decreases the risk of complications associated with dry packing
- Improves patient comfort during the packing period
- Maintains better nasal tissue health
Recommended Moisturization Methods
- Nasal saline (salt water) sprays are the preferred method of moisturization 1
- Apply multiple times throughout the day while packing is in place
- For resorbable packing, moisturization helps the material dissolve as intended
- For non-resorbable packing, moisturization prevents excessive dryness of surrounding tissue
Duration and Care of Nasal Packing
- Nasal packing typically remains in place for a period agreed upon with your clinician
- Standard recommendation is no longer than 5 days 1
- Duration depends on:
- Severity and location of bleeding
- Underlying medical conditions
- Patient comfort
- Resorbable packing may not need removal and will dissolve with time and the use of nasal saline sprays 1
Potential Complications Without Moisturization
Dry nasal packing can lead to several complications:
- Increased risk of infection as dry packing can support bacterial growth 1
- Pressure necrosis of nasal tissues
- More difficult and painful removal of non-resorbable packing
- Increased risk of septal perforation
- Formation of scar bands in the nasal cavity 1
Patient Instructions for Nasal Packing Care
While using nasal packing with moisturization:
- Avoid straining, lifting over 10 pounds, bending over, and exercising 1, 2
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated 1
- Walking and other non-strenuous activity is permitted
- Avoid over-the-counter pain medications that may increase bleeding (aspirin, ibuprofen)
- Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief as it does not increase bleeding 1
- Do not blow your nose while packing is in place
- If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open 1
Warning Signs to Watch For
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Return of blood from nose or mouth
- Fever over 101°F
- Increasing pain
- Vision changes
- Shortness of breath or labored breathing
- Loss of color around the skin of the nose
- Swelling of the face
- Diffuse skin rash 1
Nasal moisturization is an essential component of proper nasal packing care that improves outcomes and patient comfort while reducing complications.