While you're healing after a cochlear implant, the area behind your ear may be sore and swollen.
You may feel pain and have a headache for a few days.
You may also hear popping or clicking noises in your ear.
Or you may feel dizzy.
Things may taste funny or different.
Or you may have a sore throat.
With time, these symptoms should go away.
About 3 to 6 weeks after your cochlear implant, once the incision has healed, an audiologist will turn on the implant.
Your doctor will ask you to work with a speech therapist and an audiologist to learn how to make the most of your implant.
Most people are able to go back to work and their normal routines 1 or 2 weeks after surgery.
After going home from your surgery, follow any instructions you were given about diet or activity, and take medicines as prescribed.
And be sure to follow any instructions for incision care.
Watch for any problems.
Call your doctor if you have new or worse pain, a fever, bleeding, or an incision that comes open.
Call if you have signs of infection, including redness, pus, or swelling around the incision.
And call if you have signs of an ear infection, including drainage from the ear canal.
Get emergency help right away if you pass out or if you're short of breath.
There's one more thing to watch for after a cochlear implant: meningitis.
Call your doctor or get medical attention right away if you have any signs of meningitis.
These signs include a high fever; a headache; a stiff neck; feeling sick to the stomach or vomiting; having trouble looking at bright lights; and sleepiness or confusion.
You know yourself best, so call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Taking good care of yourself after surgery can help you feel better and recover sooner.
