For example, you might say, “I know I have some nasal polyps in my right nostril, so can we try using the left instead?” Before inserting the tube, they might close each of your nostrils one at a time and ask you to sniff. This will help them figure out which nostril has a wider or clearer airway.
If your doctor or nurse gives you lidocaine, they might give it to you as a vapor through a mask. Alternatively, they might squirt it into your nose in liquid form, then ask you to snort it into your throat and swallow it. It may take up to 20 minutes for the anesthetic to fully take effect, so you may need to wait a little while between taking the lidocaine or sedative and having the tube put in. A local anesthetic spray can also minimize gagging, which many patients say is the most uncomfortable part of the procedure.
For example, you might raise your hand or tap on the armrest of your bed or chair.
For example, you could say, “Are you going to do anything to lubricate the tube before you put it in?” Some doctors recommend placing the end of the tube in an oral airway device and soaking it in an ice bath for several minutes to help it stiffen into a curved position. Alternatively, they might soak the tube in warm water to make it more flexible and soft. [7] X Research source
If you’re not allowed to sip on fluids, do your best to “dry swallow” the tube as it moves through your nose and down into your throat.
If you’re not able to sit upright for any reason, ask if they can turn you onto your side. [11] X Research source
At the same time, start breathing through your mouth, which will also help open the back of your throat.
If you keep coughing and gagging anyway, the nurse or doctor will likely stop the procedure to check if the tube has become curled up in the back of your mouth or is starting to go into your airways instead of your esophagus.
Cleaning the area can help prevent irritation and infections.
You might also be allowed to suck on some ice chips.
If you’re in the hospital, let your doctor or nurse know if you think the tube is slipping or if the tape and clips are coming loose. They can help you secure it back in place.
For example, they might recommend slightly repositioning the tube once every 24 hours, or removing the tube and switching it to the other nostril every few days. Let your care team know if you start to feel a lot of soreness or discomfort in the meantime.
You might also find it helpful to put a thin dressing, such as DuoDERM, on your skin underneath the tube. [21] X Research source This extra dressing can help prevent rubbing and discomfort. Ask your doctor to recommend an adhesive remover that’s safe for your skin if removing the old tapes causes irritation.
