NE Valley Times

• Physical symptoms of sinusitis include nasal inflammation, a runny nose, congestion, headaches and pain or swelling in the face.
• People who have chronic sinusitis are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.
• Balloon sinuplasty is a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure used to clear blocked sinuses.

Chronic sinusitis affects 28.9 million American adults, or 11% of the adult population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic sinusitis is the cause of 4.1 million doctor visits and more than 230,000 emergency room visits each year.

People who have chronic sinusitis might experience nasal inflammation, a runny nose, postnasal drainage, congestion, pain or swelling in the face, headaches, loss of smell and taste, a sore threat, bad breath or fatigue, according to Mayo Clinic.

Studies have found that people suffering from chronic sinusitis could also be more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, Physicians Weekly reported. One study compared a group of 16,224 patients who were treated for chronic sinusitis with a group of 32,448 "similar people" who did not have sinus problems. The study found that over the next 11 years, the sinusitis sufferers were more than 50% more likely to develop depression or anxiety.

Balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon catheter dilation surgery, is a procedure used to clear blocked sinuses. This surgery is relatively new, having been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2005. It’s also commonly referred to as the “smart sinus” procedure, according to Healthline. After a balloon sinuplasty, many people are able to return to their regular activities within a day or two. Some people even drive themselves home after the procedure.

"Balloon sinuplasty is offered in-office, which means no hospitals, and those extra hidden fees are avoided. This procedure is minimally invasive, safe, painless, fast and effective. This procedure typically takes around 30 minutes, then you are on your way back home," Dr. John Stewart of Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers told NE Valley Times.

Balloon sinuplasty is becoming more popular because it carries lower risks and a quicker recovery time than traditional sinus surgery, according to GoodRx. The procedure does not require the removal of any bones or facial tissue, leading to less pain and swelling and a lower risk of infection.

If you're suffering from sinusitis and are looking for treatment options, take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.