Chronic sinusitis can be a terribly painful condition. In my practice, I have seen many patients come to me suffering from headaches caused by pressure in their eyes, nose, cheeks and forehead. Patients with a sinus infection cough frequently, have a continuous runny nose, difficulty breathing because of their congestion, and snore which interrupts their sleep patterns.
For many people who suffer from chronic sinusitis, their symptoms can last from three months to years, as opposed to acute sinusitis which lasts for a few days to three months. Over an extended period of time, antibiotics may not work, and in those cases, patients have additional options. Today, there is a relatively new procedure to treat blocked sinus passages called Balloon Sinuplasty™ — a less-intrusive form of surgery that can be performed in a doctor’s office on an out-patient basis.
The FDA cleared this technology and it is clinically proven to be safe and effective. The procedure includes and endoscopic catheter that uses a small, flexible balloon that is inserted into the sinus passageways, and inflated. Then it gently restructures and widens the walls of the passageways, which restores the normal ability for the sinuses to drain, while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining.
Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology is an endoscopic, catheter-based system for patients suffering from sinusitis. It uses a small, flexible, sinus balloon catheter to open up blocked sinus passageways, restoring normal sinus drainage. When the sinus balloon is inflated, it gently while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining.
To determine if you have either acute or chronic sinusitis, and if that is the cause of your snoring, you should visit a doctor of otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat doctor) who will run a series of simple to complex tests.
Sinusitis is often caused by allergies or a physical abnormality such as a deviated septum, or malformed bone. A nose and throat exam will most likely be a starting point that will reveal potential blockages. This exam will help your doctor identify the possible abnormalities that may cause snoring. If your doctor needs a detailed image of your sinuses, he may perform a CT scan (Computerized Tomography Scan). This test provides a detailed cross-sectional image of the sinuses and can be used to help identify the severity of infection inside the sinus cavities. To determine if the cause of your sinusitis is from allergens, your doctor may refer you to an allergist for a detailed evaluation.
If you suffer from facial pain and pressure, recurring sinus infections and sinus headaches, Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology may be the answer to your chronic sinusitis. Contact your doctor today and schedule an examination, or if you’re in the New York City area, feel free to contact the Manhattan Snoring and Sleep Center for expert diagnosis.
Dr. Volpi is the founder of the Manhattan Snoring and Sleep Center, and has had a private ear, nose and throat practice in New York City for more than 20 years. He and his medical staff at Otolaryngology Associates are board-certified surgeons and members of New York’s finest teaching hospitals.
This article is intended for general information only is in no way intended to be a substitute for receiving direct medical advice from a medical professional, their diagnosis or treatment. If you have any questions regarding a medical condition, or if you suspect you may have a snoring disorder, contact your physician. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
No comments:
Post a Comment