Top 7 most common side effects of endoscopic sinus surgery

Top 7 common side effects of endoscopic sinus surgery

Side effects of endoscopic sinus surgery are rare but not impossible, with some of the most popular issues as follow:

1. Nasal congestion and blockage

Nasal congestion is one of the most common side effects post-surgery. During the procedure, the sinus passages are cleared, but the tissue may still be inflamed or swollen, leading to temporary blockage in the nasal passages. This can make it difficult to breathe through the nose for several days or weeks.

2. Pain and discomfort

In the first few days after endoscopy, you might notice a sense of pressure in your nose and sinuses, accompanied by some pain. This discomfort can feel similar to a sinus infection or a mild, lingering ache in the sinus regions. Pain is often manageable with prescribed painkillers, but it’s essential to follow your doctor’s guidelines to avoid complications.

3. Bleeding

Bleeding is a potential side effect, especially in the first few days following surgery. The nasal passages and sinuses are sensitive areas, and even minor trauma can lead to nosebleeds. In most cases, bleeding is minimal and stops on its own, but you should monitor for excessive or prolonged bleeding.

4. Infection

While infections are rare after endoscopic sinus surgery, they are a potential risk. An infection could lead to a prolonged recovery or the need for additional treatments. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-surgical care to minimize the risk of infection.

5. Tiredness

You can feel extremely fatigued during the first week following surgery. This is a normal part of the recovery process, and many patients choose to take at least a week off work to rest. However, endoscopic sinus surgery recovery time varies, and some individuals may feel better sooner.

6. Swelling and bruising

The tissues around the surgical site such as eyes and nose may be affected, causing visible swelling and sometimes bruising. Thankfully, this issue can usually be resolved over time.

7. Changes in smell or taste

Some patients report a temporary loss of smell or taste after endoscopic sinus surgery. This occurs because the sinuses are directly connected to the olfactory system, and any changes to the sinuses can affect your ability to smell or taste.

Aside from the common complications mentioned earlier, patients who have undergone endoscopic sinus surgery may also experience the following:

• Tearing eyes: Some individuals may experience watery eyes due to the surgery or a sinus infection. If this continues for an extended period, further surgical intervention might be needed.
• Tooth numbness: There may be a sensation of numbness or discomfort in the upper front teeth for some time. Temporary swelling, bruising, or numbness in the lips, as well as swelling or bruising around the eyes, may also occur.
• Voice changes: Minor changes in the sound of the voice may also be a possible complication.

Tips to minimize the endoscopic sinus surgery side effects

To minimize the impact of side effects after endoscopic surgery, you should take proper care of your health and avoid certain factors that could slow down the healing process.

• Follow post-surgical care instructions: The best way to minimize side effects is to follow your doctor’s post-surgical care instructions carefully. This includes taking medications on time, managing pain, and practicing good nasal hygiene.
• Rest and hydration: Adequate rest and hydration are vital for recovery. Make sure you rest, especially in the first few days following surgery. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, which will help prevent congestion and support the healing process.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol: They can negatively affect healing and elevate the risk of post-surgery complications.
• Gentle breathing exercises: Performing gentle breathing exercises can help maintain proper airflow through the nasal passages and reduce congestion. Be sure to breathe through the mouth initially if nasal congestion is severe.
• Post-surgery check-ups: You will need to attend several follow-up appointments based on the type of surgery you had. During these visits, your doctor will clean your nose and sinuses to remove any leftover fluid or blood from the surgery. These check-ups are important for your recovery, so it’s essential to attend all scheduled appointments.

Generally, the side effects of endoscopic sinus surgery are often manageable and short-lived. By carefully following aftercare instructions, most patients recover quickly. However, you must reach out to your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.