Sinusitis is an inflammation in the tissues lining your sinuses. When the inflammation doesn’t go away within 12 weeks, it is considered chronic. Chronic sinusitis may lead to tenderness or pressure around the eyes, forehead and nose, mucus drainage, congestion, toothache, cough, headache, bad breath and loss of taste and smell.
While nasal saline irrigation, steroid sprays and decongestants can provide short-term symptom relief, chronic cases may benefit from long-term treatment options like balloon sinuplasty.
What is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to alleviate chronic sinusitis symptoms and prevent reoccurrence. During the procedure, your ENT specialist will guide a small balloon through the nose. Once the balloon is in position, your specialist will inflate it to expand the sinus openings, allowing for better drainage. You may feel pressure in your nose during the procedure, but it shouldn’t hurt.
Balloon Sinuplasty is so popular because it can be done in an office under local anesthesia. Local anesthesia blocks pain while letting you stay awake. With local anesthesia, you should be able to leave the office shortly after the procedure.
Who Is A Candidate For Balloon Sinuplasty?
Most people with chronic sinusitis are candidates for Balloon Sinuplasty. A few reasons your provider might not recommend the procedure include:
- If you have nasal polyps
- If your sinusitis is mild
- If you cannot tolerate the procedure
What Is Recovery Like?
You may need to rest at home for 24 to 48 hours following a Balloon Sinuplasty. If you get woozy after procedures, having a friend or partner drive you home is wise. Your provider may recommend a few recovery tips, including:
- Rinse your nostrils with a nasal spray or saline wash
- Sleep with head elevated to promote mucus drainage
- Steer clear of strenuous physical activity for the first week after surgery
- Don’t blow your nose for a few days
After recovery, you can enjoy easy breathing, the smells of your favorite Magnolia’s entree and lasting sinus relief. For more information about how Balloon Sinuplasty can help you, contact Charleston ENT & Allergy today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.