Treating Congestion With a Balloon Sinuplasty

Posted on by Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists

Approximately 12% of the United States population has a congested nose at any given time. You may have noticed congestion popping up in response to allergies, sinus infections or for seemingly no reason at all. While the occasional congested nose isn’t a big deal, the symptom’s constant presence in your life can quickly turn into an annoyance, causing symptoms including frequent sneezing, trouble sleeping, snoring, coughing or headaches.

If nasal congestion has become a constant presence in your life, whether as a response to allergies or a sinus infection, you may want to consider Balloon Sinuplasty as a treatment option.

What Is a Balloon Sinuplasty?

Man blowing his congestion nose.

A Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to enlarge the sinus passages safely and effectively for easier breathing and a reduction in sinus symptoms. While chronic sinusitis is the most common reason for a Balloon Sinuplasty, your sinus specialist may recommend the procedure for chronic nasal congestion. 

How Does Balloon Sinuplasty Differ From Other Treatment Options?

Traditional sinus surgery involves cutting and removing bone and tissue to reshape and open the sinuses. Balloon sinuplasty, on the other hand, works with your sinus’s natural openings. During the procedure, your sinus specialist will guide a balloon catheter into your sinuses. The balloon is then inflated to enlarge the sinus cavity and promote better drainage. Depending on the severity of the blockage, the balloon may require a second inflation.

Balloon Sinuplasties are performed under local or general anesthetic, depending on the patient’s ability to tolerate the procedure. Most patients report pressure or slight discomfort, but the procedure is rarely painful.  

What To Expect During Recovery

Following a Balloon Sinuplasty, you may need to rest at home for 24 to 48 hours. Aftercare instructions usually include the following:

  • Rinse your sinuses with a provider-approved nasal irrigation system or spray.
  • Avoid blowing your nose for 48 hours.
  • Do not engage in strenuous activity for one week.
  • Report excessive bleeding to your provider (most cases present with slight bleeding, but anything beyond that may require medical attention).

With spring in full bloom, you don’t want congestion to stop you from enjoying the smell of flowers along the South Mountain Park and Preserve. Contact Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists today to discuss whether a Balloon Sinuplasty is right for you.