WHAT’S A NASAL ENDOSCOPY?
This procedure allows your ear, nose and throat physician to inspect your nasal cavity. Using an endoscope – a long, flexible tube with a lighted camera—the physician is able to clearly view the nasal cavity, which assists in diagnosis. This is a simple, minor procedure that can be performed during an office visit. Nasal endoscopy is often performed to evaluate common sinonasal complaints such as:
- Nasal blockage
- Nasal drainage
- Nosebleeds
- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Decreased sense of smell
- Acute/chronic sinusitis
During a nasal endoscopy, a decongestant and numbing medicine are applied to the nasal cavities, either with a nasal spray or by placing some soft cotton in the nose. This topical medication will numb the nasal cavities, making the procedure more comfortable.
The medication may also cause numbing of the throat, upper teeth, and roof of the mouth. If this occurs, the numbing sensation will wear off after 30-60 minutes. However, as a safety precaution, we recommend avoiding swallowing any solids or liquids until the numbing sensation is gone.
Next, a nasal endoscope is used to examine each nasal cavity. During the examination, it helps to try to stay relaxed and take slow, easy breaths through your nose. Your physician will examine the entire nasal septum, the turbinates, the recesses where the sinuses drain into the nose, and the posterior nasal cavity. If you have had sinus surgery before, your physician will be able to directly visualize your sinus cavities for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes. The examination generally takes 1-2 minutes.
If your physician recommends that nasal endoscopy be performed, do not worry! We will carefully guide you through the process to make it as comfortable as possible.
At the Raleigh Capitol Sinus and Allergy Center, our experienced surgeons will promptly evaluate your condition with care and compassion. After reviewing your case and discussing treatment options with you, our surgeons will use the latest techniques to safely and effectively perform your surgery. All of our physicians are affiliated with Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose, & Throat.
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