If you don’t suffer from chronic sinusitis (also referred to as rhinosinusitis), chances are you are unaware of how debilitating the condition can be for people dealing with symptoms on a day-to-day basis.
Sinusitis and nasal complaints are some of the most frequent complaints that patients relate to their doctor. Some of the symptoms experienced include reduced sense of smell and/or taste, obstructed nasal breathing or congestion, nasal discharge/post nasal drip, itchy eyes and/or ears. Facial pressure or pain can also be symptomatic of nasal issues.
These negative effects, taken either as a whole or in part, can create a physical and social burden on the individual. Many are embarrassed and feel compelled to shun everyday activities such as phone usage or dinner engagements. Even an essential routine activity such as sleep is adversely affected: sleeping patterns and positions have to be constantly (and uncomfortably!) adjusted.
Fortunately, Melbourne FL ENT doctors offer balloon sinuplasty as an effective and safe treatment for those suffering from chronic sinusitis.
Balloon sinuplasty, or BSP, is an endoscopic sinus procedure that is safe and less invasive than traditional sinus surgery. There is no cutting of nasal bone or tissue; instead, a balloon catheter (see earlier blog entry) is used to dilate contracted sinus openings. As soon as the device is positioned, the balloon is progressively inflated to open the blocked sinus passageway.
Benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty include:
Less Invasive Procedure: As previously mentioned, tissue and/or bone is not removed. Patient irritation and discomfort can be minimized.
Shortened Recovery Time: Since there is no removal of tissue or bone, the time to heal is fast and the patient may typically return to regular activities within two days.
Office Setting: Depending upon the patient’s situation, some may have the procedure performed in an office setting, avoiding the stress and possible insurance costs of a hospital operating room.
Naturally, it is important to know that balloon sinuplasty may not be right for everyone; there will be situations where the more traditional sinus surgery may be the better option. However, it is very important to have this conversation with your ENT doctor.
There are a number of successful testimonials from patients whose quality of life has increased tremendously, thanks to this new, proven technique. Imagine obtaining the relief necessary to once again completely function, both physically and socially, without the burden of the symptoms of sinusitis. Balloon sinuplasty can make that happen.
