Not really a true riddle, but for those who suffer from chronic sinusitis, a small, deflated balloon could provide a very sought after solution.

As we outlined previously, there are several classifications of sinusitis, or the dreaded sinus infection – acute, subacute, chronic and recurrent. Chronic sinusitis lasts more than 12 weeks and can continue for months or even years. If you have been suffering with severe or chronic sinus infections and your at-home remedies aren’t helping, it is probably time to seek help.

Visiting with your Ear, Nose and Throat physician gives you an opportunity to discuss the history of your sinusitis and explore treatment options that you may not have known about. Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive option that is great for someone who has been struggling with chronic sinusitis that does not respond to traditional treatment, but is not yet ready for traditional sinus surgery.

With no incisions or bone alterations, this brief procedure can be done with a lot less trouble than a traditional sinus surgery. For the right patients, it can bring significant and lasting relief. After spraying the nose with numbing medication and the possible use of local anesthesia, the surgeon threads a guide wire into the sinus cavity and then slides the balloon over it. Inflating the balloon widens the natural opening of the sinus, giving it ample room to drain properly.

There is no nasal packing to remove post-procedure, no bruising and recovery is fast and typically minimal discomfort. In addition, the vast majority of health insurance plans cover balloon sinuplasty

What to Expect After the Procedure

While recovery time is different with each patient, you most likely will be able to return to your everyday activities within a few days.

  • Elevate your head while sleeping to alleviate feelings of congestion
  • Take the medications prescribed by your surgeon as directed. These medications are intended to keep you free from infection and help with pain management, though most patients do not experience much pain at all.
  • Avoid blowing your nose for the first 24 hours following your procedure.
  • Rinse your nasal passageways with the nasal spray your doctor recommends. Usually, this is every four hours.
  • Allow time to rest for the first 12-24 hours – don’t exercise or strain yourself. Give yourself time to recover!

Balloon Sinuplasty has proven to very effective in improving sinus sufferers’ symptoms and quality of life, shown in this two year study by Kaiser Permanente.

If you are tired of suffering through severe, chronic or recurrent sinusitis, set up an appointment with our office to determine if you would be a good candidate for this procedure. If it is found that you are, Dr. Faulkner can perform this procedure at both the Floresville and La Vernia locations.

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