Sinus CT helps guide treatment for chronic sinus pain and pressure
Those suffering from sinus discomfort may benefit from a sinus CT scan, a fast, painless and noninvasive tool for evaluating sinus inflammation and blockages.
A sinus CT scan provides an important first step toward getting relief by producing detailed images of the inside of the paranasal sinus cavities, which help a specialized radiologist determine the cause of symptoms and help guide treatment.
“Images taken by the CT scan give us the most accurate view of the extent of sinus disease and severity,” said Rajiv Chopra, M.D., Washington Radiology sinus CT specialist. “Relevant inflammation is readily visible on a CT scan. We also can detect any structural issues or blockages with this type of imaging.”
If you have recurring symptoms of sinusitis, including nasal congestion, headache, facial pain or pressure and runny nose, a sinus CT scan is needed for diagnosis. In addition to inflammation and structural issues, the scan can show if the sinuses are filled with fluid or if the sinus membranes are thickened.
The scan also can help detect cancer and assist physicians in planning for medical procedures by mapping the paranasal cavities. The exam potentially can eliminate the need for exploratory surgery and surgical biopsy.
About sinus CT scans at Washington Radiology
- Fasting is not required.
- The exam takes no more than 30 minutes.
- Recovery is immediate. There is no downtime.
- Radiation is not retained in the body after the exam and there are no immediate side effects.
Talk to your health care provider to determine if a sinus CT scan would benefit you. A physician order is needed to schedule the exam. To schedule your appointment, please call (703) 280-9800 and have your physician order ready.
Washington Radiology offers sinus CT scans at our locations in Washington, D.C., Chevy Chase, Md., and Sterling, Va.