About the sinuses
The sinuses are a combination of large and small air pockets in the face. They are connected to the inside of the nose through small openings called ostea. They help to optimize the temperature and humidity of the air reaching the lungs. The sinuses can become infected due to a variety of reasons. The symptoms usually associated are nasal obstruction, facial congestion, headaches, excessive catarrh, disturbance in the sense of smell and toothache.
Treatment of sinusitis
In most cases sinusitis can be treated effectively by medications and correcting any underlying cause such as allergies. If conservative treatment fails then sinus surgery may be considered.
Surgical treatment of sinusitis
There has been great improvement in the surgical treatment over the last few years. The main principle of surgery now is conserving as much as possible the normal lining of the nose and sinuses, which is achievable thanks to the new surgical techniques. Minimally invasive surgery is now the standard of care and the aim is to restore the normal mucus flow between the sinuses and the nose by adjusting the anatomy of the affected area. Modern techniques include the use of balloon sinuplasty, which reduces further any damage to the lining of the nose, thus making healing faster and more effective. All surgeries are done Endoscopically (with a camera), which results in minimal pain afterwards.
Aftercare
Dr. Alavi does not use nasal packing post operatively. For 1-2 weeks following surgery strenuous activity is to be avoided. For the first week following surgery, do not blow your nose forcefully, instead, try to sniff any secretions into the throat and cough them up. Avoid smoke and other substances which can irritate the nose. A small amount of oozing is not unusual and is to be expected. You will be given a prescription for pain medication and possibly antibiotics prior to surgery.
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