Everyone has unfortunately experienced a stuffy nose at some point in their lives and the discomfort it causes. Most nasal congestion can be relieved with over-the-counter medications and resolves itself in a couple of days. When over the counter medications don’t help any longer, balloon sinuplasty may be the solution for you!
Chronic nasal congestion, however, is often a sign of sinusitis (chronic sinus congestion), and is accompanied by thick, discolored mucus; tenderness and swelling around eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead; headaches around the eyes; and diminished sense of taste and smell. Chronic sinusitis can be caused by an infection, growths or polyps in the sinuses, or chronic swelling of the lining of the sinuses, can last weeks, and often does not get better on its own.
Patients with chronic sinusitis are generally referred to a doctor known as an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat). Dr. Paul Lenkowski of Roanoke Valley ENT and Allergy may recommend an in-office procedure known as balloon sinuplasty.
What is balloon sinuplasty? 
Balloon sinuplasty is an in-office procedure in which a wire catheter with a small balloon is passed through the nostril to the blocked sinus passageway. The balloon is inflated at the blockage, which opens and widens the sinus passageway, then withdrawn. Patients experience a return to normal sinus drainage and breathing function.
How to determine if I am a good candidate?
Dr. Lenkowski will examine you and collect general medical history. If the sinusitis is chronic (recurs frequently), has not responded to medication, and there are no underlying nasal conditions (such as polyps or a deviated septum) causing the sinus blockage, then balloon sinuplasty is often recommended.
What are the benefits?
- procedure is safe and effective
- less expensive than traditional surgery
- performed in-office
- no hospital stay is required
- minimally invasive
- only local anesthesia is needed
- minimal bleeding; no nasal packing is needed after the procedure
- no tissues or bones are damaged or broken during the procedure
- quicker recovery time than traditional surgery
If you have experienced recurring sinus blockages or infections which have not responded to medication, make an appointment with Roanoke Valley ENT & Allergy to find out if balloon sinuplasty is an option for you. Our team has decades of combined experience to help you breathe better and live better!