Is an X-ray of the sinuses necessary?

There are a number of indications in which an x-ray of the sinuses is simply necessary. Some believe that this study has no value in the diagnosis of inflammatory diseases, but this is not so. With it, it is possible to determine not only a fracture of the nasal septum or its displacement, but also to identify sinusitis. An x-ray of the sinuses of the nose helps to detect the inflammatory process. In fact, for doctors, this is one of the few ways to see what is happening inside. Of course, you can do without this study if the doctor has a special device - an endoscope, but, unfortunately, in our country this is still a rarity.

X-ray of the sinuses

That is why x-ray of the nasal sinuses is the only available way by which you can accurately determine whether a person has sinusitis. Of course, in our time there are more accurate diagnostic methods that give three-dimensional images, such as CT or MRI, but the cost of these studies is too high for many. In addition, in small cities, where such equipment is not in all hospitals, an appointment for examination is carried out in a few days, or even weeks. And with acute inflammation, there is no time to wait, it is necessary to establish a diagnosis and prescribe treatment as soon as possible.

Sinus X-ray

Of course, there are situations when ENT doctors recommend a more thorough examination, but in most cases an X-ray of the sinuses is enough. For example, the maxillary cavities in such a study are best seen. In direct pictures, they look like 2 enlightenments of a triangular shape, and on the side ones they resemble an irregular quadrangle.

If the picture clearly shows the level of the liquid, which, as it were, is poured into the container, then the specialist will have no doubt - this is definitely sinusitis. Darkening along the edges of the sinuses indicate a thickening of the mucous membrane. But if the entire sinus is darkened, then without additional studies it is difficult to make a diagnosis. In this case, there may be both tissue edema and purulent sinusitis. With this image, experts recommend a CT scan or an MRI scan. But if in your hospital there is no way to do this, then a special X-ray examination with a contrast agent will come to the rescue. When it is held, cysts, tumors and various polypous growths become visible.

You should not be afraid to do an x-ray of the sinuses of the nose: the radiation from the device is not so great as to at least somehow affect the state of your health. Of course, you should not go for such an examination for every cold, but if the otolaryngologist recommends it for a more accurate diagnosis, then you should not refuse. Indeed, without this study, even the best specialist will not be able to accurately name the disease, he will not be able to understand what is happening inside the sinuses.

X-ray at home
If you do not want to go to the clinic and wait for your turn, you can go through this procedure without leaving your room. Many clinics now offer to do x-rays at home. The quality of the images of the mobile device is no different from those that are done in ordinary hospitals. In this case, the doctor will not only take an x-ray, show the film on the spot, but also give a description.


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