Dealing with Chronic Sinus Issues: The Journey of Bruce Black
Bruce Black has struggled with sinus problems for the majority of his adult life, stemming from hay fever, asthma, and nasal polyps. Nasal polyps, which are growths shaped like teardrops that can develop in the nose or sinuses, have been a constant source of trouble for him. Although they are not cancerous, they can significantly impact the nasal passages.
Having undergone his first nasal polyp removal surgery two decades ago, Bruce Black from Harrod, OH, has been in a cycle of sinus infections, polyps, and surgeries every few years. Recently, in 2021, he had his seventh nasal polyp operation. Despite the success of previous surgeries in his lower sinuses, he faced a new challenge with polyps growing in his upper sinuses, only detectable through a CAT scan.
Before his most recent surgery, Bruce Black experienced a loss of his sense of smell, which he endured for approximately two years. This loss, often associated with nasal polyps, can also lead to symptoms like thick mucus, postnasal drip, and recurrent infections when the sinuses are obstructed, explains Dr. Brad deSilva, an otolaryngologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
It’s important to note that constant inflammation from allergies, asthma, or autoimmune disorders can contribute to the development of nasal polyps, as noted by Dr. deSilva. Before resorting to surgery, doctors will explore other treatment options to shrink or eliminate the polyps, such as saline rinses, steroid nasal sprays, steroid medications, and biologic injections. These treatments aim to reduce the size of the polyps and improve breathing.
However, in some cases, medications may not effectively manage nasal polyps, prompting the need for surgical intervention. Imaging scans are performed to assess the number and size of the polyps and evaluate the sinus bone structure, providing a roadmap for the surgeon.
Surgery becomes necessary to prevent potentially severe complications associated with nasal polyps, including complex sinusitis, bone loss, and infections near the eye socket and brain, which can lead to meningitis. Although there is no cure for nasal polyps, surgery can yield significant benefits for appropriately selected patients, according to Dr. deSilva.
Typically, patients undergoing nasal polyp surgery receive general anesthesia. The procedure involves using an endoscope, a small tube that allows the surgeon to visualize the nasal passages during the removal of the polyps. Depending on the size and location of the polyps, the surgery may last around 30 minutes or more.
After the surgery, patients usually go home the same day, requiring a companion to drive them. They can resume their regular diet either on the day of surgery or the following day.