Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
Catarrh can be persistent and can also make it very difficult to maintain a good voice, especially if you have a job with high vocal demands. It is often works first thing in the morning.
The following steps can be taken to try and reduce the symptoms:
Steam Inhalation
This will often relieve the initial ‘blocked’ feeling upon waking. In addition, it soothes the larynx, which may be dried out due to mouth breathing during the night.
Atmosphere
A warm, dry atmosphere will encourage the airway to dry out. Try to ensure adequate ventilation and humidification. Air conditioning can be particularly drying, as can car-heating systems, with warm moving air.
You might like to consider leaving the car heater off or opening the window a little.
Avoid sitting too close to a heat source, especially hot air blowing heaters. Plants or bowls of water placed in a room may help.
Fluid levels
Dehydration will be felt rapidly by the larynx. Ensure that your body is kept well hydrated. Aim to drink at least four pints of fluid (non-alcoholic) per day. Space out these drinks and do not allow your throat to become dry.
Diet
Catarrh seems to be increased by certain foods in some people; although clear scientific evidence shows this occurs is inconclusive. Dairy products are often found to increase mucous levels, as is fresh orange juice and chocolate.
It might be worth cutting down on these products for a month, to see if there is any difference, before gradually re-introducing these foods.
Throat Clearing
It is easy to become an ‘habitual throat clearer’ if you have catarrh. Remember, this can damage the larynx. A ‘productive cough’ is better than repeated throat clearing. If you have a dry cough, keep a bottle of water with you and take frequent sips.
Breathing
Breathe through your nose not your mouth, this will help keep the nasal airway clear. Often, saline (saltwater) nasal douching can help with catarrh. You can either make up your own solution (half a teaspoon of salt mixed in a pint of boiled water—then cooled) or buy a commercial seawater solution (sterimar) from a chemist. Aim to douche the nose three or four times a day.
Other sources of information about allergies:
The British Society For Allergy & Clinical Immunology www.
Allergy UK http://
British Association of Otorhinolaryngologists www.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Ear or nose and throat (ENT) service.
About this information
Service:
Ear, nose and throat (ENT)
Reference:
G/030
Approval date:
23 February 2026
Review date:
1 February 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.