• Apply warm and dry compresses, a heating pad set on low, or a hot water bottle 3 or 4 times a day for pain. Keep a cloth between the heat source and your skin to reduce swelling and promote drainage.
  • Do not apply ice to this area. To minimize swelling keep your head elevated. Use several pillows and prop your head and torso upright while sleeping.
  • If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
  • Take pain medicines exactly as directed:
    • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
    • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • Keep your bandage clean and dry. Change the bandage whenever it gets wet or dirty, or at least one time a day.
  • If the abscess was packed with gauze:
    • Keep follow-up appointments to have the gauze changed or removed. If the doctor instructed you to remove the gauze, follow the instructions you were given for how to remove it.
    • After the gauze is removed, soak the area in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes 2 times a day, until the wound closes.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Avoid smoking for as long as possible following the procedure. The use of tobacco products slows down the healing process and may lead to developing other complications.
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