A nasal endoscopy is a common, minimally invasive medical procedure that uses a thin tube with a camera and light (an endoscope) to examine the inside of your nasal passages and sinuses. Its primary purpose is to diagnose and evaluate various conditions, offering a direct, magnified view of areas not visible during a standard physical examination.
Indications for a Nasal Endoscopy
Healthcare providers often recommend a nasal endoscopy for persistent or unexplained nasal and sinus symptoms. Common reasons include chronic sinusitis, which involves ongoing inflammation and infection of the sinuses, often causing congestion, facial pain, and discolored nasal discharge. The procedure can also identify nasal polyps, which are soft, noncancerous growths that obstruct airflow.
It is also performed for frequent nosebleeds, persistent nasal congestion or blockage unresponsive to medication, and a decreased or lost sense of smell. Doctors may use it to investigate suspected nasal tumors or to evaluate cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.
Performing a Nasal Endoscopy
A nasal endoscopy is a quick outpatient procedure performed in a doctor’s office, usually lasting one to five minutes. Patients do not need special fasting instructions, but should inform their healthcare provider about any medications. Before the examination, a topical decongestant spray is applied to reduce swelling, and a numbing medication is sprayed into the nose for comfort. This numbing sensation may also extend to the throat or roof of the mouth temporarily.
During the procedure, you will be seated upright. The doctor gently inserts a thin endoscope, which can be flexible or rigid, into one nostril. This instrument has a light and a camera that projects magnified images onto a screen, allowing the doctor to view the nasal cavity, sinus openings, and the back of the throat.
While you may feel some pressure as the endoscope moves, the procedure should not be painful. The doctor may guide the endoscope through various parts of the nasal and sinus passages to ensure a thorough examination. If needed, a small tissue sample, known as a biopsy, can be taken during the endoscopy for further analysis.
Post-Procedure Expectations
After a nasal endoscopy, patients can typically resume their normal daily activities almost immediately. It is common to experience mild, temporary side effects, such as slight soreness in the nose or throat, nasal dryness, or a minor nosebleed. These sensations usually subside within a day or two.
If a numbing spray was used, it is advisable to avoid eating or drinking until the numbness fully wears off, which typically takes about an hour, to prevent swallowing difficulties. The doctor may discuss the initial findings of the nasal endoscopy with you right after the procedure. If a tissue sample was collected for a biopsy, the full results may take a few days to a week to become available.
While generally safe, contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent or heavy nasal bleeding, severe pain that does not improve, fever, or difficulty breathing, as these could indicate a complication.