Can You Please Let Me Know If All The Junk In My Nose Is Normal?

Posted on Wed, 23 Apr 2025

Question: Hello,
I had a silver nitrate nose cauterization yesterday to help with nosebleeds in my left notstril. The ENT used the nitrate stick in approximately 3 places. I was given this advice for aftercare other than no exercise for 2 weeks. No heavy lifting, sneeze with mouth open, no blowing nose. Use saline solution through the day, use Nasogel in the evenings and use cool mist humidifier. I have done these things last night and today. My concern is I’m very nervous about causing my nose to bleed or scab come loose. I can’t breathe at all out of my left nostril. There is brown stuff all inside and around the edges of my nostril and also a few huge blobs of gray matter, plus the moisture. It’s really disgusting. The doc didn’t tell me anything about this occurring. So I am very nervous about rupture. I am very careful and and only drinking liquids so I don’t cause problems with my nose moving, by chewing. I slept in upright position. Can you please let me know if all the junk in my nose is normal? She did not pack . I am very nervous about causing it to bleed. It feels very crusty and looks awful. Please help me with peace of mind and what I can do to ensure a good healing from this. As you can tell, I am very nervous about it. Thank you in advance.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Scabbing inside the nostril following cautery is normal

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

First of all, I would like to reassure you that the scabbing of the nose following chemical or electro-cauterisation is normal. The physical nasal packing is not required as the scab forms a natural pack thus preventing the re-bleeding. The scab would remain there for at least 7 days, before it gets dislodged by itself. Scabbing or crusting is the collection of blood clots and the dry nasal secretions. This acts as a protective cover during the nasal bleeds. Dislodging the same could create a more raw area in the nasal mucosa and restart the nasal bleed.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Use the saline nasal spray as frequently as possible to keep the scab moist and soft.
2. Also, the nasal gel can be used at least 3-4 times a day.
3. Drink frequent sips of water to prevent dryness of the throat caused due to mouth breathing.
4. You can eat normal food except for the hard items.
5. Stay indoors for 2-3 days.
6. Avoid nose picking, strenuous exercises and dry environment.

Hope this answers your query; revert back to me if you have any follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (28 minutes later)

Thank you so much for your help Dr XXXXXXX I am so nervous about the dislodging of the scabs. I am spraying as you advised, but I am hoping that it would not be possible to dislodge at this point, unless I hit my nose accidentally. I’ve been so worried. I had no idea the aftermath of this procedure would be so scary. I read several things on the internet that cause me alarm with this. My nostril is full of all the gunk you speak of and I’m so worried it will dislodge. It looks very messy Do you think it will be okay and that I don’t need to worry? Thank you again for your valuable knowledge. I appreciate your help and kindness. Regards. XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Do not worry! This is perfectly normal.

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

Thanks for writing back

Trust me this is quite normal following any nasal procedure. In fact, yours is a very minor office procedure and the recovery would be very fast compared to any other major nasal surgery.

I understand that, you would have been mentally prepared if your doctor had educated you enough before this procedure.

Relax! There is no point in getting over-apprehensive about this scab. Obviously, it looks scary inside the nose, but, trust me this is the one which protects you from any re-bleed. The frequent use of normal saline will make it soft and clear off by itself from the nose. Kindly follow my suggestions you will get over this very soon.

Finally, avoid coffee, as it makes the nasal mucosa dry.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Wish you good health.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (4 hours later)

Thank you so much Dr. XXXXXXX You have been so kind, compassionate and helpful. Your knowledge that you have shared with me has given me peace about my healing and recovery. I’ve been so worried and you have helped me immensely. Thank you again. I wish you the very best and good health as well.
Kind regards, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Wish you a speedy recovery

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

Welcome back

Thanks for your kind words. I wish you a speedy recovery. God bless you always.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (35 minutes later)

Thank you again Dr. XXXXXXX You have made such a difference. I am fortunate to have received your advice. Very grateful.
God Bless you.
Kind regsrds, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Take care, stay safe and healthy

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

Take care, stay safe and healthy

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar