Sinusitis
Sinus Infection is the more common term for sinusitis. It is when the tissues that line the sinuses become inflamed and buildup of mucus, pus, or debris occurs. A sinus infection has a variety of symptoms including yellow/green discharge, nasal congestion and facial pain/pressure without improvement for at least 10 days. Sinusitis affects 1 in 8 Americans on an annual basis.
What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis occurs when the paranasal sinuses become inflamed or infected. Common causes include:
– Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
– Allergies or autoimmune conditions
Duration of Symptoms:
– Acute: Lasts less than 1 month
– Chronic: Persists for 3 months or longer
Early evaluation and treatment can help relieve discomfort, reduce congestion, and prevent complications.
How Is Sinusitis Treated?
Acute Bacterial Sinusitis:
Often treated with antibiotics, along with decongestants and saline nasal rinses to relieve symptoms and promote healing.
Chronic Sinusitis:
Managed through regular nasal irrigation, and in some cases, minimally invasive surgery may be recommended to improve sinus drainage and long-term relief.
Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery is performed through the nostrils to enlarge sinus openings and improve drainage.
Types of Surgery:
– Balloon sinuplasty: Minimally invasive, often done in-office
– Endoscopic sinus surgery: Traditional approach, usually under general anesthesia
Balloon Sinuplasty™
Balloon sinuplasty uses a small balloon catheter to gently expand blocked sinus openings, restoring proper drainage and airflow.
Key Points:
– Minimally Invasive: No cutting of bone or tissue
– Procedure: The balloon is inserted into the inflamed sinus, inflated to widen the opening, then deflated and removed
– Recovery: Faster and less painful compared to traditional sinus surgery
– Result: Sinus openings are safely and effectively enlarged, providing long-term relief from chronic symptoms
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Endoscopic sinus surgery is performed under general anesthesia in the operating room, using a small camera inserted through the nostrils for precise visualization.
Procedure Highlights:
– Identifies natural sinus openings
– Removes blocked or inflamed tissue to enlarge openings
– Restores proper sinus drainage and airflow, improving overall nasal function
