Blockage in Sphenoid Sinus Causes Daily Headaches

Hi @sharlynn62, have you made any decisions about surgery yet? I would like to introduce you to @czechmate, @tuckerdoodle, and @huronshores, All connect members whom have mentioned sinus surgery.

Also, here is some sinus information that Mayo offers on their webpage. -https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/rhinology-nose-and-sinus/overview/ovc-20426855

I think researching surgeons that have completed multiple sinus surgeries and looking for facilities that work closely with ophthalmologists should be a big part of your research.

Have you spoke with an ophalmologist to discuss potential risks with a surgery like this?

I had the surgery 6 years ago. No complications. However, the problem has returned

Hi, @nanaboo8, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect.

I'd like to invite @sharlynn62 to rejoin this discussion to share any information on a similar sinus surgery and offer support, as well as @huronshores @czechmate @tuckerdoodle @steveso @zebraclaire97.

Nice to hear you had no complications from your surgery. This was surgery to correct blockage in your sphenoid sinus, if I understand correctly? Was the risk of the problem recurring a surprise to you or something you and your surgeon discussed prior to your surgery?

Hi,
I have a lengthy history chronic sinusitis with severe isolated sphenoid infection that I am still battling after six years. If your MRI shows complete blockage than I believe the sinus is already inflamed which requires some sort of intervention. I have had 4 operations and encountered no problems other than the usual post op fatigue and some pain. When I had my first CT scan and he saw my sphenoid was completely blocked I was booked in the next day for surgery due to the severity. Of course every person is different so I would suggest a discussion about where to go from here is needed.
Best of luck.

@nanaboo8 - are you planning to return to your surgeon to see what might be next, if the sinus problem has now returned?

Where did you have your surgery? Have you looked into other doctors and hospitals to go to?

Hello. I had this surgery 3 days ago. The surgery is pretty scary with all the risks, but the daily severe headaches were getting worse and worse. I didn’t see any other solution. Although I am in pain (3 days post op), I don’t feel the pressure in my head nor headaches any longer. I felt like my head was in a vise! My doctor said my sphenoid sinuses (both) were ‘impacted’ with infection for years, based on the severity and the enlargement of the sphenoid bone. They did a bacteria culture so when I go for my follow up on Wednesday, Sept 13, they’ll know what type of bacteria is was impacted in my sinuses and he will inject some antibiotics in the sinus cavities. My eyes even feel more ‘relaxed’ (hard to explain why. I guess the pressure on the optic nerve maybe. I was very nervous about the surgery, but am so glad I did it.

I hope this helps anyone who is on the fence about it. Just research and find the right doctor who has experience with this type of surgery and pray on it. 🙏

@dnelson720

Hi. If you check back here, after your post op, how are you feeling now?

Are still finding relief of the headache/eye pressure?

@suzanne65

Why did you have to have 4 surgeries?

And are you doing ok today?

Hello! Yes, I no longer have daily headaches/pressure and find that my eyes feel more “relaxed”. Thanks.