Sinusitis is a medical condition that causes the cavities in the nasal passage to become inflamed. This inflammation is caused when bacteria is present in your mucus. Sinusitis can cause severe headaches, sinus congestion and pain in the face. If you suffer from sinusitis for at least 12 weeks during the year, then your condition is called chronic sinusitis.
Antibiotics and pain medications can be used to treat many cases of chronic sinusitis, but some people do not get any better after using medication. If you are one of the few people that can’t find anything to relieve your painful sinus symptoms, then you may need to get sinus surgery.
You will need to get your sinuses checked out by our medical professional before scheduling your sinus surgery. A CT scan will be performed to get a good look at your sinuses. Blood tests, a chest X-ray and an EKG may also be performed before scheduling your sinus surgery. If our doctor believes that there are no other alternatives to alleviate your painful symptoms, then a sinus surgery will be scheduled.
You must abstain from smoking for three weeks leading up to the surgery. You will also have to avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen for at least 10 days before the procedure. This will help make sure your blood clots properly during the surgery. Nasal spray should be used shortly before the surgery begins to help clear up your sinuses.
The operation may begin with the surgeon inserting a thin camera in your sinuses through one of your nostrils. This will allow him to see inside your sinuses without making an incision in your face. Special instruments will be used to remove the cause of your severe sinus blockage. These blockages are usually caused by nasal polyps and scar tissue. Some bone may also be removed from the septum or turbinates to help prevent you from developing any sinus problems in the future.
You should be able to go home shortly after the completion of your sinus surgery. You should be fully healed in approximately four weeks. However, this all depends on your unique situation. Carefully following our doctor’s instructions will help increase the chances of a successful surgery.
To see if sinus surgery could help you, talk to the professionals at Ayala ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery in McAllen. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation to learn more about sinus surgery.