Are Your Sinuses Slowing You Down?

Sinuses play a significant role in protecting against bacteria, allergens, and other foreign invaders. These 4 pairs of cavities located in the skull and face contain mucous-producing membranes that work overtime. The membranes pick up these allergens, draining through the nasal cavities and throat. Sometimes, blockages, inflammation, and infections occur. Some cases resolve naturally, but others cause chronic sinusitis. The discomfort, stuffiness, and pain can only be overcome by medical treatment. One of the solutions, endoscopic sinus surgery, is known to produce fantastic results.

Treating your chronic sinus problems

Sinus issues often resolve naturally with rest and over-the-counter sinus medication. Nasal irrigation and decongestants are other valuable options. With chronic sinus issues, however, the symptoms can return or fail to respond to treatment. At this point, see a doctor, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, for assistance. Doctors can provide stronger medication, antibiotics, or nasal corticosteroids. These treatments are often enough to resolve sinus troubles. Should the symptoms fail to improve or the patient experience recurrent infections, surgery may be necessary.

FESS up to improve sinus drainage

Surgery seeks to manually open blocked sinuses caused by inflammation, or polyps, growths that form from chronic infections. An ENT doctor will suggest endoscopic sinus surgery. Also called functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), the minimally invasive procedure uses small surgical tools to clear the sinuses. The doctor passes an endoscope through the nostrils. An endoscope has a light and camera at the end, giving the doctor a full view of the sinuses. The doctor can pass surgical tools to cut away inflamed bone, tissue, polyps, or other obstructions through the endoscope.

What are the benefits?

FESS allows the surgeon to perform the procedure without making incisions along the face or nose. Patients can leave the hospital or surgical center the same day and start recovery almost immediately. FESS also has terrific accuracy. The scope takes the guesswork out of finding and correcting the sinus issues and improving outcomes. Endoscopic surgery also carries minimally invasive surgery benefits. Patients can expect fewer side effects, less bleeding, and faster recovery, usually in a few weeks. Best of all, endoscopic sinus surgery works. Up to 90% of patients are satisfied with the results, and 79%, after 12 years, felt FESS resolved sinus issues.

Clear the way for improved sinus function

Sinus blockages and chronic inflammation are common symptoms that can fail to respond to treatment. The congestion, coughing, and sinus discomfort can derail anyone. Instead of managing this never-ending condition with medication for months, consider surgery for a more comprehensive solution. Endoscopic sinus surgery also improves quality of life. Patients have minimal pain and pressure. Work performance, sports, and social activities are no longer impacted. Surgery clears the sinuses, which clears the way for a stress-free life.