Although a runny nose and congestion are a common accompaniment to the cold and flu, it can become difficult to live with when it persists. This is often called chronic rhinitis, where nerves within the back of the nose can become unbalanced and send continuous signals that cause dripping, swelling, and congestion even when you’re otherwise healthy. One new effective treatment option is called ClariFix® cryotherapy and can achieve relief with a quick and easy procedure right in our Tuscaloosa office.
What is ClariFix?
ClariFix is an FDA-cleared, non-surgical treatment option for chronic rhinitis, or runny, stuffy nose. This treatment uses cryotherapy to disrupt the nerves that normally signal the nose to inflame, run, and drip. This is often the cause of chronic rhinitis rather than a virus or infection. This means that many patients look for solutions but don’t find relief.
What Can ClariFix Treat?
ClariFix can provide relief for may symptoms related to unwanted nerve activity in the nose. These include watery, runny nose; nasal congestion, morning congestion, post-nasal drip, and clearing of the throat. These symptoms are often associated with chronic rhinitis, a condition usually not accompanied by a cold or flu.
What Happens During the Procedure?
ClariFix can be performed in our Tuscaloosa office with a local anesthetic. Once you’re ready, a specialized applicator is placed in the back of the nose to deliver cooling energy to the affected nerves. Most patients feel only slight pressure during this phase of treatment, as well as a cooling sensation around the nose and mouth. Overall, this treatment takes less than an hour, after which you can return home.
What Can I Expect Afterward?
You may experience some side effects in the days after treatment like increased sensitivity, mild congestion, and some overall discomfort. However, these symptoms subside quickly. Between two and six weeks after treatment, you’ll begin to see improvement in your rhinitis symptoms. In one clinical study, patients saw a significant decrease in symptoms with four out of five patients reporting long-term results. However, our ENT specialists can recommend your best options in tandem with ClariFix based on your unique symptoms and medical history.
Schedule a Consultation
It’s possible to find relief from your symptoms with a quick and easy office treatment. To meet with our ENT specialists and discuss your options with ClariFix, contact our Tuscaloosa office by calling or filling out our online form.