A study of data from Medicare patients undergoing nasal endoscopy from 2000 to 2016 found that the total number of endoscopies increased by 313%. The procedure is used to look inside the nasal cavity and openings to the sinus passage. Your ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist may recommend a nasal endoscopy if you have one or more of the following conditions:
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Headaches
- Facial pain
- Chronic nosebleeds
- Sinus inflammation or infection
- Nasal polyps
- Loss of sense of smell
Additionally, a nasal endoscopy may be used to remove a foreign object from the nose or take a sinus culture or tissue sample. If you feel nasal polyps or are unable to smell the flowers at Washington Park, your ENT specialist may recommend a nasal endoscopy. Knowing what to expect can help ease your worries or concerns about the procedure.
Do You Need To Prepare For A Nasal Endoscopy?
In most cases, there aren’t any specific preparations you need to take before a nasal endoscopy. Your provider may give you special recommendations based on your medications or particular needs.
What Happens During An Endoscopy?
During an endoscopy, you will typically remain in a seated position. Most procedures last between one to two minutes and follow these few simple steps:
- Your provider will decongest and partially numb your nose. They may also apply a partial decongestant to reduce swelling.
- Your provider will insert the endoscope into your nostril to examine the nasal and sinus passages and search for abnormalities. The procedure is then repeated in the other nostril.
- If your provider determines it is necessary, they will remove a tissue sample for testing.
While you may feel pressure during the procedure, a nasal endoscopy shouldn’t hurt.
What Happens After An Endoscopy?
Nasal and facial numbing may last approximately 30 minutes after your procedure and cause a slightly bitter taste in your mouth. Additionally, you may feel a slight soreness in your nose and throat that should resolve in one to two days.
For more information about nasal endoscopies, contact Albany ENT & Allergy Services today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.