Who is Eligible for Balloon Sinuplasty?

Chronic Sinusitis: Causes and Symptoms

Persistent inflammation and swelling of membranes lining the sinuses can cause a painful infection known as sinusitis. It may be acute, clearing up after a week to 10 days. Sinus infections lasting longer than 12 weeks are considered chronic. When you’re suffering for that long, it can feel like an eternity!

Symptoms of sinusitis are cold-like and include sore throat; stuffy or runny nose; postnasal drip; pain and pressure around the eyes, nose, cheeks, and forehead; pressure in the ears; headache; fever; cough; loss of smell or taste; and bad breath.

Sinusitis can be caused by a variety of factors including colds and allergies, viral or bacterial infections, nasal polyps, and a deviated septum. It is most common in young and middle aged adults, but can affect people of all ages.

Balloon Sinuplasty vs. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Chronic sinusitis sufferers often turn to surgery for long-term relief from their symptoms. While traditional sinus surgery is effective, it involves cutting and removal of bone and tissue, which usually involves a short hospital stay. It can be painful and often requires a lengthy recovery period.

Balloon Sinuplasty, by contrast, is a much simpler outpatient procedure. You are given a local anesthetic, and your Spring House ear, nose and throat surgeon will insert a catheter with a balloon attached to the tip through your nasal passages. The balloon is then gently inflated, expanding your sinus passages and allowing fluids to drain normally. A majority of patients – surveys show the number is as high as 95 percent – enjoy long-term relief from sinusitis symptoms. Balloon Sinuplasty is a safe and effective FDA-approved procedure. Side effects are rare, and most patients are able to resume normal activities within a day or two.

Is Balloon Sinuplasty Right for Me?

Not everybody is eligible for the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure. Your Spring House ENT specialist will determine whether you qualify for surgery. Generally, they’ll review your medical history, take a look at the severity of your symptoms, and determine the effectiveness of other treatment solutions you have either tried in the past or might be available to you before recommending Balloon Sinuplasty. It’s certainly worth scheduling an appointment if you are looking for lasting relief from your symptoms!