Sinusitis affects millions of Americans. It can interfere with daily life, and even lead to serious infections such as meningitis if it is not treated properly. Chronic sinusitis can be difficult to treat, but balloon sinuplasty is an option that is effective and not very invasive.
Home Remedies for Sinusitis
Home remedies are the first line of defense against sinusitis. Patients can try:
- Hot showers or breathing in hot water vapor to open the sinuses.
- Staying hydrated.
- Getting enough rest to stimulate the immune system and fight infections.
- Using a nasal lavage to rinse the nasal cavities.
These self treatments are often effective, but doctor’s care may necessary if they are not.
Medication as Conservative Therapy
Dr. Lee Mandel of Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists, Inc. can suggest or prescribe medications to relieve symptoms. For example, over-the-counter pain relievers can fight headache pain, while decongestants and nasal sprays can help clear nasal passages and reduce congestion. Nasal corticosteroids can fight inflammation.
Sinusitis that continues to return after treatment ends is known as recurring sinusitis, and sinusitis with symptoms that persist for at least 8 weeks despite therapy is known as chronic sinusitis. Both of these conditions can require more aggressive treatment to prevent complications such as more serious infections.
Balloon Sinuplasty as a Next Step in Treatment
For stubborn chronic and recurring sinusitis, balloon sinusitis can be a viable option. Dr. Lee Mandel places a catheter with a balloon at the proper site in the frontal, sphenoidal, or maxillar sinus that is causing the problem. Then they inflate the balloon to open the passage.
Balloon Sinuplasty versus Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Since it is occurs under local and not general anesthesia, the procedure is available to patients who might not be able to undergo functional endoscopic sinus surgery under general anesthesia. These patients can include those who are older, who fear general anesthesia, or who have had allergic reactions to anesthesia in the past. Balloon sinuplasty is also gentler than FESS, since it does not involve wire catheters that can lead to tissue destruction.
Balloon Sinuplasty: Long-Term Solution for Chronic Sinusitis Treatment
From the patient’s perspective, balloon sinuplasty can be an ideal solution to a long-term health problem. It is a low-risk procedure with a high success rate. Patients can undergo balloon sinuplasty while planning to take only a day or two away from work. They can then look forward to life without debilitating headaches that come with chronic sinusitis, as well as the freedom of not needing to continually go to the doctor for treatment.
From the point of view of Dr. Lee Mandel and the healthcare system, balloon sinuplasty is a cost-effective treatment option. One reason is that it can usually be performed in the clinic, and does not need to be done in a hospital or emergency room setting. Another source for cost savings due to the procedure’s methods is the use of local rather than general anesthesia. Healthcare providers can save money over time because the method is effective and saves patients from seeking treatment time after time.
