What is a sinus sergery like does it work for nasal drip

[pc49]

I will be asking for the opp at my appointment at ENT on New Year's Day, is it worth getting done,has anyone had it for nasal drip.thanks Peter

[Caspiana]

Hi pc49 Peter.

I had a deviated septum so had a septoplasty about five years ago. Actually, it was also one of the conditions I had to fulfil to be considered for a lung transplant. It has helped lessen the severity of the post nasal drop a lot, but it is not completely healed. I was told by the surgeon that although it would improve,for many patients it never entirely goes away. The first week is the worst, until they take the packing out of your nose. Then for about three to four weeks you battle constant, crusty, bloody "stuff". After that it gets better. And yes, it was quite uncomfortable, however, now I am glad I did, but at the time I wasn't so ecstatic. 😑

This is just my experience though. And I don't believe it is the same for everyone.

Best wishes,

Cas xx 🌿

[Shancock]

In January I had a FESS which is where they drain the sinuses to clear them and a septoplasty to straighten my septum. It has helped dramatically it really has, but the aftermath is painful. You will need antibiotics for ten days to stop infection and painkillers. It is like having a terrible infection to start with as you are totally blocked up and headaches. But it was worth it. The packing nowadays disintegrates so you don't need to have it removed. For the first 7 days use Sterimar atleast 3 times a day to clean the nose but do not blow it, then you can start using a Neilmed sinus rinse twice a day but go gentle at first. After 2 weeks the blocking starts to go and gradually each day you will feel better.

I am glad I had it done but yes it was nasty afterwards. Stay in and rest for those 2 weeks as you don't want to get an infection and don't wash your face with water as you don't want water getting up there.

I had a bad sinus infection last month but usually I'm okay now so it's much better. Although unfortunately my septum has set slightly to the left so I am having it straightened next month, but as they're not doing anything with the sinuses this next op should be less painful my ENT assures me.

Basically, I'd go for it as it will help but maybe not althogher cure you? Just remember to use the sinus rinses afterwards.

[pc49 in reply to Shancock]

Hi.my septum is ok.my sinus is blocked on the left side and little on the right side.I was told it was chronic rinititus. I understand surgery is done up your nose with no cuts.I believe they scrape out what is blocking the sinus witch helps with drainage and will stop post nasal drip.thanks for replys.pc49

[Shancock in reply to pc49]

Yes thats right. It does help so i think is worth a go. But it does take s good 6 weeks after the op to feel the benefit.

Also keep rinsing daily with Neilmed sinus rinse to keep the nose clear and I would advise using Avamys nasal spray once a day fir 6 months after.

Ask you ENT for it you cant buy it in the shops.

[Rattle in reply to Shancock]

Thank you for all the information and advice. I too have chronic sinusitis and rhinitis (plus asthma and bronchiectasis) I am due to have a FESS like yours except I believe my septum is ok. I was advised by the ENT consultant to go ahead as it should rwduce post-nasal drip which in turn will be beneficial for my lungs. Also having ear issues due to sinusitis so this will hopefully get better too. Good luck pc49!

[Finnmaccool in reply to pc49]

Hi PC49 and friends. Yes, I had my sinuses unblocked just over one year ago. It certainly made a big difference regarding my chronic nasal drip which, as you have indicated, exacerbated my bronchiectasis. Unfortunately the right side (the more problematic side) has deteriorated a bit, but not as bad as before my surgery. Good luck.

Finn

[Whitechinchilla in reply to Shancock]

Thanks for all that info. I too have a deviated septum and the constant drip and ongoing sinus infection and rhinitis but my gp told me that surgery was no longer an option and I would have to learn to live with it. I just wonder hat affect all of that has on frequent chest infections?,

[Izb1]

Hi pc49, please keep us updated on how you get on. I am due to see the ent doctor in January, he said we would discuss an op on my sinus then and must admit am a bit worried. Irene x

[pc49]

Hi,everyone,thanks for your replys,I have just come back from ENT this morning,I saw the practice nurse who took notes,she took wax out of my ears,done hearing test I need hearing aid wich will be fitted in a few weeks.she looked at my previous notes and CT scan then conferred with surgeon in next room.She came back to me to say a pre-opp has been booked for 4/4/2019,then an opp at a later date my be early June,as I have holiday booked in May.so all is good.I will let you all no how I get on.fingers crossed.thanks PC49

[Finnmaccool in reply to pc49]

And good luck with the hearing aid(s). I have had them in both ears for 30 years or so.