During a nasal endoscopy, the health care provider tries to look inside your nose or the opening of the sinus passage to examine this region and to prescribe proper treatment. A camera is attached to the endoscope, which captures the video image and projects it onto the screen. It is the same as rhinoscopy; the doctor can perform this test in their office or diagnostic center. This test is generally done to treat nasal or sinus problems. So, let's get to know more about the procedure and how you should prepare for nasal endoscopy.
- When should you go for a nasal endoscopy?
There are specific symptoms that indicate that a national endoscopy is required, such as:
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Headache
- Facial pain, mainly around the eye region
- Chronic nose bleeding
- Nasal tumor
- Nasal polyp
- Cerebrospinal fluid leakage
In certain cases, this endoscopy is also required to remove any foreign object from the nose, treat sinus infection, or obtain a tissue sample for biopsy.
Preparation for nasal endoscopy
No preparation is required for the this endoscopy—you have to follow all the instructions given by the healthcare provider. You must also inform the healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners so they can suggest a temporary stop to this medicine to prevent complications.
- What happens during nasal endoscopy?
You have to relax and be in a seated position. Your nose is decongested and partially numbered so that the examination can be conducted without any problem, or a topical decongestant can be used to prevent swelling. Also, this helps the endoscope to move without restriction. Slowly, the endoscope is inserted inside your nasal passage, and your sinus area is examined for any abnormality. The process is repeated on both sides and if required, a sample tissue is obtained and sent to the lab for further analysis.
- How long does it take for the nasal endoscopy?
This endoscopy takes 2 to 3 minutes to complete, and during the process, you will feel a lingering numbness in your nasal area due to the anesthetic spray. You should avoid eating or drinking for about an hour after this endoscopy and follow the instructions given by the healthcare practitioner. You have to come for a follow-up and take the medicines prescribed so that infections can be avoided. If required, the specialist can schedule another endoscopy to monitor the progress.
- Is nasal endoscopy painful?
This endoscopy is not painful, but you might feel pressure during the procedure. Also, your mouth, throat, and nose will be numb. So, after the test, you might have a bitter taste. There are no after-effects, but often, soreness is noticed around the nose and throat, which generally goes away automatically in one or two days.
Conclusion
After the health practitioner reviews the result, you might have to undergo a second round of nasal endoscopy. Based on all the details, a treatment plan would be suggested, and along with this, imaging tests, such as a CT scan, might also be prescribed. There is nothing to worry about, and you can also go through https://drkhliment.com.sg/ent-nasal-endoscopy-nasoendoscopy/ for further suggestions.
