Nasal Endoscopy in Glendale, CA
Nasal Endoscopy
Nasal endoscopy is a test to view the inside of the nose and sinuses to check for problems.
How the Test is Performed
The test takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Your health care provider will:
- Spray your nose with a medicine to reduce swelling and numb the area.
- Insert the nasal endoscope into your nose. This is a long flexible or rigid tube with a camera at the end to look inside the nose and sinuses. Pictures may be projected onto a screen.
- Examine the inside of your nose and sinuses.
- Remove polyps, mucus, or other masses from the nose or sinuses.
How the Test Will Feel
- This test does not hurt.
- You may feel discomfort or pressure as the tube is put into your nose.
- The spray numbs your nose. It can numb your mouth and throat, and you may feel like you cannot swallow. This numbness goes away in 20 to 30 minutes.
- You might sneeze during the test. If you feel a sneeze coming on, let your provider know.
Why the Test is Performed
You may have a nasal endoscopy to figure out what is causing problems in your nose and sinuses.
During the procedure, your provider may:
- Look at the inside of your nose and sinuses
- Take a sample of tissue for a biopsy
- Do small surgeries to remove polyps, excess mucus, or other masses
- Your provider may recommend nasal endoscopy if you are having:
- A lot of sinus infections
- Lots of drainage from your nose
- Face pain or pressure
- Sinus headaches
- A hard time breathing through your nose
- Nose bleeds
- Loss of sense of smell
Normal Results
The inside of the nose and bones look normal.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Nasal endoscopy helps with the diagnosis of:
- Polyps
- Blockages
- Sinusitis
- Swollen and runny nose that will not go away
- Nasal masses or tumors
- A foreign object (like a marble) in the nose or sinus
- Deviated septum (many insurance plans require a nasal endoscopy prior to surgery to correct it)
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FAQs
A nasal endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows a healthcare provider to see inside the nasal passages and sinuses using a thin tube with a camera.
It is used to identify the cause of ongoing nasal or sinus symptoms such as congestion, drainage, facial pressure, nosebleeds, or loss of smell.
The procedure typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes to complete.
No, it is generally not painful. You may feel mild pressure or discomfort, but numbing spray helps minimize sensation.
Only a topical numbing spray is used. General anesthesia is not required for a standard nasal endoscopy.
Your nose will be sprayed with medication, the endoscope will be gently inserted, and the provider will examine your nasal passages and sinuses.
Yes, small procedures such as removing polyps, mucus, or taking a biopsy can sometimes be performed during the exam.
Yes, you will still be able to breathe, though you may notice temporary pressure or a sensation of fullness.
Temporary numbness in the nose, throat, or mouth is common and usually wears off within 20 to 30 minutes.
Mild spotting can occur but is uncommon. Significant bleeding is rare.
It can help diagnose sinusitis, nasal polyps, blockages, deviated septum, nasal tumors, or foreign objects.
Yes, it allows direct visualization of inflammation, drainage, or blockages associated with sinus infections.
No special preparation is required. Your provider will give instructions if any medication adjustments are needed.
Yes, it is a very safe and commonly performed procedure with minimal risk.
Many insurance plans cover nasal endoscopy, especially when it is medically necessary or required before certain nasal surgeries.