Balloon sinuplasty is a type of sinus surgery that is minimally invasive and can be performed right in the doctor's office. | Wikimedia Commons
Balloon sinuplasty is a type of sinus surgery that is minimally invasive and can be performed right in the doctor's office. | Wikimedia Commons
Not all sinus infections are created equal.
While most can clear up on their own or with the aid of antibiotics, some conditions, such as chronic sinusitis, can linger and cause long-term suffering, even when remedies like saline sprays, topical nasal steroids and over-the-counter medicines are used.
WebMD defines sinusitis as “swelling in your sinuses that cause congestion and discomfort.”
Among the causes that can lead to nasal passages becoming blocked are infections caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses, small growths called polyps on the lining of your sinuses, allergies or a deviated septum.
For some, finding relief may be harder, leading to the patient being sent to a specialist or even requiring surgery. The main goals of sinus surgery are to relieve symptoms and to cut down on how many infections the patient gets.
One of the most common procedures is endoscopy, where doctors insert thin and flexible instruments into the nose. A small camera lens that sends images back to a screen allows doctors to see and remove polyps or scar tissue. Another common procedure is balloon sinuplasty, a relatively new form of treatment in which the doctor puts a thin tube into the nose and guides a small balloon to the blocked area and inflates it. This helps clear the passageway so the sinuses can drain better.
“This is an appropriate intervention for sinuses that are no longer functioning optimally,” physician assistant Diana Ruiloba of Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers told NE Valley Times. “This procedure, on average, takes about 30 to 40 minutes, which conveniently can be done in the office. Overall, a great procedure to help improve quality of life by giving you an opportunity to breathe your best.”
The risks from either procedure are considered few, and other benefits could include helping the patient breathe more easily through the nose and helping to restore the patient's sense of smell or taste.
The Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz can help potential patients decide if they might want to speak to a doctor about sinus surgery.
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