Common Sinus Diseases
- Nasal polyps: Balloon-like formations can occur in the nasal tissue for various reasons. This ballooning can cause difficulties in breathing and smelling, and in advanced stages can lead to sinus blockage, potentially resulting in sinusitis. Nasal polyps are commonly observed in allergy patients.
- Swelling of nasal turbinates: When the blood vessels in the turbinates, responsible for warming the inhaled air, expand, swelling of the nasal turbinates can occur. Prolonged swelling can lead to nasal congestion.
- Chronic sinusitis: Due to anatomical abnormalities in the nose, recurrent respiratory infections, and seasonal allergies, frequent inflammations occur in the sinuses. It is characterized by persistent headaches, nasal pain, and nasal congestion.
- Tear duct obstruction: The tear duct is a corridor that opens into the nose. Therefore, tear duct obstruction is related to sinus health. The disease is characterized by constant tearing. Recurrent infections can cause sinusitis and lead to tear duct obstruction.
- Sinus tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors can form in the sinuses. They grow slowly and do not show any symptoms in the early stages. Malignant ones can grow and spread to the nose, eyes, and brain, causing cancer. They can be detected and treated in the early stages through routine examination and testing.
- CSF fistula: CSF is the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to the nose due to trauma affecting the area between the brain and nose. This deformation may lead to outcomes resulting in brain infection.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
What Should Be Considered Post-Surgery?
After endoscopic sinus surgery following sinus diseases, patients must adhere to certain rules. In the initial weeks, care should be taken not to let water into the nose, maintain hygiene, and regularly use the moisturizing sprays recommended by the doctor.
Avoid allergens, tobacco smoke, and dusty environments. As the sinus area is sensitive, the risk of a secondary infection should always be considered. Keeping the head elevated while sleeping reduces nasal pressure and promotes faster healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the symptoms of sinus diseases be confused with other diseases?
Yes, the symptoms of sinus diseases like headaches, fatigue, nasal discharge, and eye area pain are general complaints and can be mistaken for flu, migraine, or dental issues. Therefore, a detailed ENT examination and, if necessary, imaging methods are essential for a definitive diagnosis. Early diagnosis allows sinus diseases to be treated more easily before they become chronic.
Does endoscopic sinus surgery offer a permanent solution?
Endoscopic sinus surgery generally provides a permanent solution for sinusitis and other sinus diseases. Factors such as the patient's allergic constitution, lifestyle, and environmental factors can affect disease recurrence. Regularly following the recommended care and checks after surgery significantly lower the risk of recurrence. After sinusitis treatment, habits to preserve nasal health should be adopted.
Are nasal functions affected after endoscopic surgery?
No, when performed correctly, endoscopic sinus surgery does not adversely affect nasal functions; rather, it significantly improves congestion and olfactory issues. Because this procedure aims to open sinus pathways and clear inflamed tissues. If the surgery is not performed by an expert physician, surrounding tissues may be damaged.
Do sinus tumors always show symptoms?
No, sinus tumors often do not show symptoms in the early stages. Therefore, they are usually identified at a later stage. However, in advanced stages, symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial swelling, nosebleeds, and vision problems may occur. It is important for individuals with symptoms similar to chronic sinusitis to have regular doctor check-ups and, if necessary, undergo an endoscopic examination.