North Baltimore Journal

• Balloon sinuplasty is a relatively new procedure, having been approved by the FDA in 2005.

• One study showed that more than 95% of patients showed improvement in their symptoms.

• Having a balloon sinuplasty can improve other things, such as quality of sleep.

Sinusitis is an ailment that affects people everywhere of all ages, and it can have a negative effect on someone’s life. Dr. Jamie Oberman of Frederick Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers offered information about how to treat chronic sinusitis effectively and safely.

“It certainly can be quite debilitating,” Dr. Oberman told North Baltimore Journal. “The studies show that it certainly contributes to a loss of vitality, productivity and quality of life. You don't have to live with it. There are solutions out there, and many of which are very well-tolerated and minimally invasive and almost risk-free.”

Sinusitis is a condition that involves swelling and inflammation of the nose and sinuses, according to GoodRx. One of the most effective ways to treat sinusitis is through balloon sinuplasty. This procedure, according to Healthline, is also known as a balloon catheter dilation surgery. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2005 and is often referred to as “smart sinus procedure.”

According to Healthline, balloon sinuplasty is often recommended for people with chronic sinusitis, which is when symptoms last for more than 12 weeks.

GoodRx reported that balloon sinuplasty is becoming more popular, as it has lower risks and a faster recovery time than traditional sinus surgery. Fierce Healthcare published a study of more than 1,000 patients who underwent the procedure and found that more than 95% saw improvement in their symptoms. Not one person surveyed said there were any adverse effects.

Acute sinusitis lasts up to four weeks and can be caused by viral infections or seasonal allergies. Subacute sinusitis symptoms last up to 12 weeks and are usually due to bacterial infections and allergies. Recurrent acute sinusitis means you have at least four episodes of acute sinusitis over the course of a year, with episodes lasting seven days or more.

According to GoodRx, balloon sinuplasty is a procedure than can open up blocked sinuses and may be an option for when medications haven't been effective. Otolaryngologists insert a guidewire into the nostril to access the blocked sinus. A balloon is then inflated for a few seconds at a time, creating small fractures in the bones around the sinus to widen the passages. It is then deflated and removed, and a saline solution flushes out debris.

Healthline reported that the cost of a balloon sinuplasty ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the doctor, and it tends to be much less in an office or clinic, rather than at a hospital. Most insurances also cover this cost.

Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy reported that 60 to 75% of chronic sinusitis sufferers also experience poor sleep. According to Sleep Review, within a few days of the surgery, most patients report that symptoms have improved. This included better sleep, breathing easier and less pain or no pain or pressure in the face.

If you're experiencing chronic sinusitis and want to find out more, please take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz provided by Frederick Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers.