Nasal cauterization is a common procedure used to treat recurrent or severe nosebleeds, a condition known as epistaxis. The process involves applying a chemical agent, like silver nitrate, or an electrical current to the blood vessels in the nose to seal them off and create scar tissue. It is understandable to feel anxious if bleeding occurs after the procedure. This initial discharge is often a normal part of the healing process, but understanding the difference between expected drainage and a complication is important.
Expected Bleeding and Discharge After Cauterization
It is normal to experience mild bleeding and discharge immediately following nasal cauterization. The procedure creates a controlled injury to the mucosal lining, prompting the body to form a protective scab over the sealed blood vessel. For the first 24 to 48 hours, a small amount of blood-stained discharge or minor ooze is expected as the tissue begins to heal.
The discharge may appear dark, brown, or thick, containing old blood and cautery material. This indicates the sealed vessel is covered by a protective crust. Small pieces of this crust may shed naturally over the next few days or up to a week, sometimes causing light spotting. Distinguishing between this minor dark drainage and active, bright red blood flow is helpful for monitoring your recovery.
Essential Post-Procedure Care for Healing
Avoiding physical trauma to the nose is the most important action to ensure proper healing. Patients must resist the urge to pick or rub the inside of the nose, as disturbing the scab can easily cause re-bleeding. To prevent trauma, do not blow the nose forcefully for at least one to two weeks; instead, gently wipe any external drainage.
Keeping the nasal environment moist supports healing and reduces the likelihood of the scab cracking. Apply a prescribed antibiotic ointment or use a saline nasal spray several times a day to keep the tissue supple. Using a humidifier, especially while sleeping, also helps prevent the nasal lining from drying out.
For the first few days, avoid strenuous activity that increases blood pressure in the head, including heavy lifting or vigorous exercise. Limit activities causing vasodilation, such as taking very hot showers or consuming hot drinks, for the initial 48 to 72 hours. Unless specifically instructed by a physician, avoid over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen for several days, as these nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs interfere with normal blood clotting.
Warning Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While minor discharge is normal, certain signs indicate the cauterized vessel may have reopened and require medical attention. Heavy bleeding is defined as a flow that quickly soaks a tissue, or a nosebleed that persists for more than 20 to 30 minutes despite applying firm, continuous pressure to the soft part of the nose. This level of bleeding is beyond typical recovery.
Other significant complications warrant contacting your doctor immediately, including signs of infection at the cauterization site. These symptoms may include a persistent fever, severe pain unresponsive to simple relievers, a foul odor, or excessive swelling in the nose. Systemic symptoms such as dizziness, a rapid heart rate, or difficulty breathing, which may suggest excessive blood loss, also prompt immediate medical attention.