Sinus x-ray

Sinus X-Ray: Overview

Sinus X-ray is a type of radiological imaging used to diagnose sinus related diseases, like nasal obstruction, sinusitis and tumors. It uses X-rays to create images of different sinuses in the head and face including the frontal, maxillary, sphenoid and ethmoid sinuses. The X-ray machine is positioned according to the patient’s head position and the sinus that needs to be examined. It is a painless, low risk procedure which is performed to investigate a wide range of conditions.

Sinus X-Ray: Preparation

The patient should remove any heavy jewelry or metal objects for quality X-ray image.
It is recommended to wear clothes that don’t have metal references like snaps and zipper.
Inform the doctor about any medications or allergies.
The doctor may ask you to stop certain medications before the test.

Sinus X-Ray: Procedure

The patient is asked to lie down on a table with the X-ray machine above the head. Before the X-ray is taken, the patient will be asked to assume different positions in order to get different views of the sinuses. The following steps are–

The patient will be positioned in a way that is suitable for the area of the sinus that needs to be examined.
The radiologist or technician will give a protective gear for eyes and other body parts and ask to stay still during the test.
The radiologist will adjust the height of the X-ray tube and the plane of the X-ray beam.
The technician will then take images of the different sinuses.

Types of Sinus X-Ray

Paranasal Sinus X-Ray Procedure: It is a special X-ray technique used to get images of the sinus cavities and bones of the mouth. It mainly helps in detecting conditions like silicas, sinusitis and sinus tumors.
Nasal View X-Ray: It is an X-ray technique used to get images of the nose and the nasal cavity. It is used to detect infections, polyps, tumors and other abnormal structures.

Why is Sinus X-Ray done?

To diagnose the condition of sinusitis, swollen nasal passages, and other sinus related infection.
To diagnose polyps and tumors in the sinuses.
To detect a foreign object in the sinus cavities.
To determine any structural deformities such as fractures and depressions in the bones of the sinus cavities.

When is Sinus X-Ray done?

If the patient is suffering from frequent nasal congestion.
In case of persistent headache and facial pain.
If the patient has loss of smell or taste.
If the patient is not responding to over the counter medications.

Risks of Sinus X-Ray

Sinus X-ray is a completely safe and low-risk procedure. There are very few risks associated with the procedure. It uses small doses of radiation and the patient will not experience any radiation-related side effects.