Struggling to breathe through your nose can be a real pain, especially when surrounded by Texas pollen and humidity. If you’re tired of feeling stuffed up and are considering options to breathe easy, endoscopic sinus surgery might be on your radar. Here are a few quick FAQs to help you understand if this procedure could be right for you.
Q: What is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
A: Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where a doctor uses a small camera to look inside your sinuses and remove any blockages. The goal is to open up your sinus passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing sinus infections.
Q: When Should I Talk to a Doctor About Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
A: Consider discussing endoscopic sinus surgery with your doctor if you have:
- Chronic Sinusitis: Sinus infections lasting over 12 weeks that don’t respond to medication
- Recurring Sinus Infections: Frequent infections that keep coming back, even after treatment
- Nasal Polyps: Growths that can block your sinuses and make breathing difficult
- Structural Issues: Problems like a deviated septum or bone spurs that block your nasal passages
- Exhausted Other Treatments: If medications, nasal sprays or other treatments haven’t worked
Q: What Are the Benefits?
A: The benefits of endoscopic sinus surgery include:
- Better breathing
- Fewer infections
- Less sinus pain and pressure
- Improved quality of life
Q: Is This the Right Treatment for Me?
A: Consult with an ENT specialist at Allergy & ENT Associates to see if this surgery is right for you. They’ll review your medical history, symptoms and previous treatments to determine the best solution.
Q: What’s Recovery Like?
A: In most cases, recovery is pretty fast. Most people go home the same day and can return to normal activities within a week. You might have some congestion and minor bleeding initially, but these symptoms normally resolve quickly.
Q: Are There Risks?
A: As with any surgery, there are risks, but they are relatively low with this procedure. Possible risks include bleeding, infection and — very rarely — damage to surrounding structures. Your doctor will discuss these with you in detail.
Ready to discover how you can breathe easier? Schedule your consultation today!