Sinusitis is one of the most common health conditions in America. More than 37 million Americans suffer from it each year. Sinusitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the tissue that lines the sinuses. Our sinuses are usually filled with air, but when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.
Here are some common symptoms of sinusitis:
- Facial pain and pressure
- Nasal discharge
- Cough and congestion
- Loss of smell
If you have sinusitis, you may also experience fever, bad breath, fatigue, and dental pain.
People who have recurring sinusitis are typically treated with medications, such as antibiotics and steroids, or endoscopic sinus surgery. However, if you frequently suffer from pain, pressure, and other symptoms of sinusitis, you could qualify for a new treatment option: balloon sinuplasty. Side effects of balloon sinuplasty are minimal, making it a great option for anyone looking to avoid major surgery.
Potential Balloon Sinuplasty Complications
Balloon sinuplasty or balloon sinus dilation reshapes the anatomy of your sinuses and expands the pathways to restore drainage. During the procedure, small balloons are placed in the nose and sinuses, then are dilated to expand the sinus pathways.
As with any medical procedure, there are associated risks and side effects. Balloon sinuplasty is minimally invasive, so there are fewer potential side effects than with other sinus procedures. Some potential balloon sinuplasty side effects include:
- Postoperative bleeding
- Pain and swelling
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia or other medications
- Infection
It is also possible that your sinusitis doesn’t respond to the treatment, and you could have to seek out alternative treatment options.
If you suffer from recurring sinusitis, visit FastMed and speak with one of our medical professionals about options for treatment. If your FastMed physician determines your sinusitis requires treatment from a specialist, we can set up the appointment for you and send over your medical records. Our healthcare professionals will treat you with great care to minimize any balloon sinuplasty complications.