At Alabama ENT Specialists, sinusitis sufferers finally have an instant solution to their unbearable symptoms. Balloon sinus dilation (BSD), also commonly known as Balloon Sinuplasty, is a minimally invasive option that is performed by either Dr. Benoit or Dr. Shields to provide immediate relief during a quick, in-office procedure. Balloon sinus dilation is an excellent alternative to traditional sinus surgery, offering minimal downtime and longer-lasting relief.
Until recently, chronic or recurrent sinusitis conditions were only limited to two treatments, including medication and invasive sinus surgery. Thankfully for medical advances, there’s a treatment that is efficient in alleviating symptoms without the need for incisions, cutting, or removing tissue.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a very common condition that affects over 35 million Americans each year. Sinusitis is a swelling or inflammation of the sinuses, which causes blockage and improper drainage of mucus that can lead to an infection. Balloon sinus dilation is effective in treating chronic sinusitis, which occurs when these symptoms last three months or longer.
Common symptoms for sinusitis include bad breath and aching teeth, runny nose, weekend sense of smell, facial pressure and pain, and nasal or throat congestion. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms that have not responded to prescription medication, you may be the perfect candidate for balloon sinus dilation.
Balloon Sinus Dilation – Procedure Overview
Balloon sinus dilation is performed under local anesthesia and involves small balloons placed in the nose and sinus openings. Your Alabama ENT Specialist will reshape your sinus pathways by inflating the small balloons to ensure proper drainage. Opening the channels allows for immediate drainage of built-up mucus or pus that has been trapped in the sinus cavities. This method is an effective, lasting treatment for some patients who cannot find relief of their symptoms with just medication.
Following the treatment, patients are free to return to their normal activities in as little as two days, however you should avoid blowing your nose for 24 hours.
Benefits of Sinus Dilation
There are many advantages of balloon sinus dilation, primarily performed by our professional providers in Tuscaloosa, AL. Some primary benefits include:
- A convenient and comfortable procedure that typically lasts about one hour.
- The local anesthetic numbs your nose to ensure optimal comfort.
- A practical solution that offers long-lasting relief.
- Quick recovery, with patients returning to activities within one to two days. However, many patients return to work the next day!
- May reduce healthcare costs
If you are suffering from chronic sinusitis and other treatment options are ineffective for your complications, ask your Alabama ENT Specialist today about the sinus dilation procedure. Dr. Benoit and Dr. Shields are trained and experienced users of office sinus dilation technologies. This less invasive technology improves your quality of life like you’ve never thought of before.
Schedule an appointment at our Tuscaloosa office today to determine if balloon sinus dilation is right for you. Visit our blog page for more information!
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