A sinus infection is an inflammation of the tissues in your sinuses. Common symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose and facial pressure. If frequent sinus infections are preventing you from enjoying the smell of flowers at Kathy Seei Park, Balloon Sinuplasty may offer relief.
Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive, long-term solution for treating chronic sinus infections (three months or longer). The procedure uses a small, expanding balloon to gently open blocked sinuses, restore normal drainage and relieve pressure.
Let’s take a look at four practical steps you can take to decide whether Balloon Sinuplasty is right for you.
1. Meet With a Sinus Specialist
If you’re dealing with chronic sinus infections, schedule an appointment with one of our sinus specialists. We can review your symptoms, conduct a physical exam and assess your treatment history to determine your Balloon Sinuplasty eligibility.
Balloon Sinuplasty works best for people with chronic sinusitis who haven’t responded to other treatments like allergy medication or nasal irrigation.
Your specialist may not recommend the procedure if you have structural issues like nasal polyps, tumors or a deviated septum that require surgical intervention.
2. Track Your Symptoms
Come prepared with a symptom log to make the most of your consultation. Include how often you experience nasal congestion, pressure behind the eyes, headaches or breathing difficulties. Don’t forget to mention any treatments you’ve tried—prescription medications, decongestants, saline rinses, etc.—and whether they’ve offered any relief.
Understanding your symptom history will help your sinus specialist determine whether a Balloon Sinuplasty can offer the long-term relief you need.
3. Understand What the Procedure Can and Can’t Do
It’s important to set realistic expectations. Balloon Sinuplasty is designed to relieve sinus blockage and promote better airflow, but it doesn’t correct issues like a deviated septum. If your breathing problems are due to structural issues, your specialist might recommend a different procedure, like septoplasty or turbinate reduction, instead.
The biggest benefit of a Balloon Sinuplasty is having fewer sinus infections over a given year and having less severe infections where not everything requires antibiotics and steroids.
4. Come With Questions
Feeling confident about your treatment starts with asking the right questions. Don’t hesitate to speak up. Your sinus specialist is there to help. A few common questions include:
- What’s the procedure like from start to finish?
- How soon will I feel better?
- Are there risks I should know about?
- What’s the typical recovery time?
- Will I need to schedule a follow-up appointment?
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Balloon Sinuplasty is a safe, minimally invasive procedure to widen the sinus cavity and minimize recurring infections. Contact Collin County ENT today to discuss your eligibility with one of our sinus specialists.