What Can Be Done About Chronic Sinusitis?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30.8 million adults are diagnosed with chronic sinusitis in the United States.
Sinusitis, which is inflammation and swelling of the nasal cavities, usually resolves on its own. When it doesn’t, and persists for 12 weeks or more, it’s considered chronic sinusitis.
Chronic sinusitis sufferers report constant fatigue, increased susceptibility to infection, general discomfort, and overall reduced quality of life. What can be done about chronic sinusitis to help the millions who suffer?
If you regularly deal with chronic sinusitis, you should first make an appointment with your doctor to determine if your situation can be resolved through medication. Often, steroids, antibiotics, decongestants, and saline sprays can bring quick and lasting relief.
If you need further help, your doctor may refer you to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor) to examine your nasal cavities for structural issues that may be causing the sinusitis, such as polyps or a deviated septum.
If this is the case, then surgery may be necessary to correct the cause of your chronic sinusitis.
Procedures Bring Relief From Chronic Sinusitis
Marvel Clinic offers minimally invasive surgical procedures that are ideal for patients who suffer from recurring sinus infections, chronic congestion and nasal allergies, and chronic sinus pressure.
These procedures, including Balloon Sinuplasty, Endoscopic Septoplasty, and Turbinate Reduction, address the root causes and not just the symptoms, of chronic sinusitis.
Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon sinuplasty is a quick and simple endoscopic procedure that opens and reshapes sinus passages without removing tissue or bone. Sinuplasty operates by enlarging sinus passages with a balloon to open up drainage pathways. The balloon is filled with saline and fitted onto a small catheter, which is inserted into the opening of the problem sinus. Once the balloon is inside, it is dilated for about 5-10 seconds. This enlarges the sinus opening up to six times its normal size, allowing it to drain and ventilate freely.
Endoscopic Septoplasty
Endoscopic Septoplasty is a minimally invasive technique for the correction of septal deviation. An endoscope is inserted into the nose to provide a visual aspect of the nasal passage. A small incision is made into the area of the deviation to separate the mucosa and to readjust any cartilage, bone, or spur that is causing issues. Once the blockage has been repaired, the mucosa is replaced. This procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia.
Turbinate Reduction
Swollen turbinates, found inside the nose, can cause pressure, congestion, and breathing difficulty. This quick, painless, office-based procedure shrinks the turbinates and provides years of relief from congestion, pressure, and drainage issues, as well as treatment for snoring and sleep apnea.
Say Goodbye to Chronic Sinusitis
If left untreated, chronic inflammation can damage your sinuses and even require surgery to repair. You don’t have to suffer any longer with the pain and discomfort of chronic sinusitis.
Take our Sinus Quiz, which will help us understand your symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis, and prescribe the right treatment for you.
The team at Marvel Clinic is excited to help you decide the best course of action to bring relief to your chronic sinusitis. Give us a call today at 1-931-451-8401 to schedule a consultation.