Chronic sinusitis can be a problematic and frustrating ailment, but if it seems unconquerable, we have some good news–– it doesn’t have to get you down forever. In fact, if you’re determined to be a viable candidate for a balloon sinuplasty, you could be free of the ailment in as little as 15 minutes. Let’s learn more about Chronic Sinusitis and how a balloon sinuplasty treatment at Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists is a surefire way to keep it at bay.
What Is Chronic Sinusitis
Sinusitis is the name given to an infection of the sinuses, a pair of four cavities that comprise a portion of your facial and cranial structure. Sinuses are akin to channels that help mucus and bodily fluids leave the body. They act as a filtration system of sorts, keeping the nose and face free of bacteria. When the sinuses fail to properly drain, excessive bacterial build-up can lead to irritation and infection. If this occurs infrequently, lasts only a few days, and disappears with treatment, then the condition is considered acute. In contrast, if your sinuses are regularly infected, then it is termed chronic.
There is no singular cause of chronic sinusitis, though certain factors tend to be involved on a case-to-case basis. These include:
- Nasal polyps – though non-cancerous, these growths can cause sinus blockage and lead to inflammation and infection.
- Deviated septum – If the bone and cartilage separating the nasal cavity are crooked or malformed, this can lead to complications with sinusitis.
- Weak Immune System – A weakened immune system will not be able to prevent sinus infections from occurring and recurring.
- Allergies – Inflammation due to allergies will often exacerbate sinusitis-like symptoms
- Smoking And Alcohol Use – Tobacco smoke and excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to chronic sinusitis by causing increased sinus pressure and damaging cilia in the lungs.
What Is A Balloon Sinuplasty
Also known as balloon catheter dilation, balloon sinuplasty is commonly termed the “smart” sinus procedure. And for good reason—it has a fabulous success rate of alleviating and preventing symptoms related to chronic sinusitis.
So how does it work? Treatment starts on-site by receiving IV sedation via a board-certified anesthesiologist. After you are sedated, Dr. Mandel and his expert team insert an endoscope into your nasal passage in order to view the area of inflammation. A small balloon catheter is then inserted, simultaneously opening the sinuses and reshaping the nasal passage itself. The result is drainage of any fluid, which is augmented by a saline flush. Once this minimally invasive procedure is concluded, patients should expect to experience a reduction of sinusitis symptoms immediately.
The entire procedure takes as little as 15 minutes, and many of our patients are able to resume their normal activities within 24 hours.
Breathe Easier With Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists
Are you looking for relief from your sinus issues? At Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists, Dr. Mandel provides solutions that are tailor-made for you. Call to request an appointment today at 954-983-1211, or request an appointment online.