Question:
Does anyone have a problem now after surgery, with dry mucous membranes?

I suffer from allergies and I have noticed that my nose especially is very dry. It hurts it is so dry most times. Just wondering if this is something to expect. If so does anyone know if over-the-counter saline might work and be safe?    — Dana L. (posted on May 2, 2002)

May 2, 2002
I would expect a little dryness, just for a few days or so right after surgery. I know that in my case, they kept the oxygen thing on me (you know, the one that loops over your ears and goes under your nose), for about three days. I think they did that becasue I had a constant fever and low pulse/ox levels. So, that's probably what dried me out. The atmosphere in the hospital was also kind of dry. If it's a problem ask for some A&D ointment and don't be afraid to stick your finger up your nose to get it there if you have to!
   — PaulaM

May 2, 2002
I don't know if this is caused from anything that happened postop, but my son had problems with dry mucous membranes (he kept getting nosebleeds), and his ENT suggested an OTC medication called Ayr Nasal Saline Gel. It seemed to work fine. Hope this helps!!
   — Darby K.

May 2, 2002
I too am having alot of problems with it. But the saline spray helps. Also Neosporen (or it's Wal-Mart clone) gel (NOT cream) inside the nose really helps. A little tiny dab will do.
   — Danmark

May 2, 2002
I've had 3 surgeries on my sinuses, the first 2 to treat cysts (yuck, yuck, yuck...with lots of pain). The Ayr brand of saline nasal spray is absolutely the best, by far. My ENT recommended it, although he also gave me a recipe to make my own saline spray at home since I had to use so much following surgery. It's been 4 years since my last surgery. I credit my regular use of Ayr saline spray (and Flonase for allergies) with going so long now without a single sinus infection, even when I was still a smoker. Too many people don't realize the effect nasal dryness can have on your poor head! Use those humidifiers in winter! Good luck - Anna
   — Anna L.