A sinus infection is an inflammation of the tissues lining your sinuses. Sinus infections can lead to many uncomfortable symptoms, including pressure around the eyes, forehead and nose, runny or stuffy nose, toothache, cough, headaches, bad breath and even a loss of taste and smell. When this inflammation persists for more than 12 weeks, it’s classified as chronic sinusitis.
While mild and infrequent sinus infections can usually be managed with a combination of cold or allergy medication, decongestants and nasal saline rinses, an ENT specialist will likely recommend a balloon sinuplasty for chronic infections.
What To Know About Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to permanently expand the sinus openings, alleviating the symptoms of chronic sinusitis and reducing the likelihood of recurrence. Most procedures follow a few simple steps:
- Your ENT specialist guides a small, deflated balloon through your nose to the affected sinus openings.
- Once in place, the balloon is gently inflated, expanding the sinus passages and improving drainage. Depending on the blockage, the balloon may be inflated more than once. Although you might feel some pressure during the procedure, it should not be painful.
- Your ENT specialist allows the balloon to deflate and removes it from your sinuses.
Why Choose A Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon Sinuplasties are quickly becoming the sinus surgery of choice because they have fast recoveries and do not require a tissue sample. One significant advantage of balloon sinuplasty is that it can typically be performed in an office setting under local anesthesia. This means that while the anesthesia numbs the area, you’ll remain awake and can usually go home shortly after the procedure.
Balloon sinuplasty is an excellent option for many people dealing with chronic sinusitis. However, there are a few situations where your healthcare provider might not recommend the procedure, including if you have nasal polyps, mild sinusitis or are unable to tolerate the procedure.
How Quick Is Recovery?
After undergoing balloon sinuplasty, you may need to rest at home for 24 to 48 hours. Following a brief rest period, you should be able to resume most activities like usual, though your ENT specialist may recommend you avoid strenuous physical activity for at least one week.
Once you’ve recovered, you can look forward to easier breathing, the smells and tastes of your favorite Copper Crow meal and long-lasting relief from sinus discomfort. To learn more about managing your chronic sinus infections, contact Albany ENT & Allergy Services today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.