For people with seasonal allergies, the pleasure of outdoor activities can be overshadowed by the misery of symptoms like nasal congestion, which in some cases can trigger a sinus infection – also called acute sinusitis. In many cases, medication will eliminate the infection. Some individuals, however, suffer from chronic sinusitis, which means their symptoms recur more frequently, are longer lasting and difficult to control.

A procedure called balloon sinuplasty may be a treatment option for someone who suffers from chronic sinusitis. It’s a minimally-invasive treatment alternative to traditional sinus surgery wherein a narrow “balloon” is inserted into the sinus, inflated slightly to widen the opening and then removed to improve drainage and thus reduce pressure and swelling.

Click here to view for a short video about the procedure.

If you experience frequent, painful sinus infections, speak with your physician about your treatment options, which may include balloon sinuplasty. For more information, contact the Ear, Nose and Throat Department at Essentia Health Fargo South University Clinic.

Filed under: Fargo-Moorhead, Park Rapids