While sinus and nasal tumors are rare, they can have a serious impact on breathing, sleeping, vision, facial structure, and overall quality of life.
In this piece, we’ll take a closer look at sinus tumor symptoms and diagnosis. We will also overview treatment options for this lesser-known type of cancer.
Sinus Tumor Symptoms
While sinus and nasal cancers are often symptomatic, possible symptoms include:
- Frequent nasal congestion (often on one side)
- Facial pain and/or numbness
- Post-nasal drip
- Nosebleeds
- Blurred or double vision and/or “runny” eyes
- Loss of taste and/or smell
- Facial, nose, palate, or neck growths
- Trouble opening mouth
- Persistent ear infections
- Difficulty hearing
If you are experiencing these symptoms, a checkup with an ENT specialist can help you understand the cause(s) and get appropriate treatment.
Sinus Tumor Diagnosis
While sinus tumors are often asymptomatic, doctors rely on several methods for diagnosing them. These include:
- Medical history and physical examination of the head and neck, during which a fiber-optic scope may be used to examine your sinuses
- Imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRIs
- Endoscopy and biopsy to obtain detailed images and a tissue sample
Sinus Tumor Treatment Options
Treatment for sinus and nasal tumors depends on the type and extent of the disease. In the case of small benign tumors that aren’t interfering with your lift, nothing more than observation may be needed.
In other cases, more intensive treatment may be necessary, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
After your diagnosis and follow-up, your doctor will determine the best course of treatment (or combination of treatments) for your unique situation.
Schedule a Sinus Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, or vision changes, it is crucial to seek out expert medical treatment. Early detection of sinus and nasal tumors can be essential to more effective treatment, better outcomes, and an improved quality of life.
To schedule an appointment at our Greater Los Angeles office to discuss your sinus condition or other ENT concerns with board-certified otolaryngologist and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Payam Daneshrad, call (310) 453.6500 or fill out a convenient online form. We have offices in Torrance, CA, and Santa Monica, CA, so you can choose the location that works best for you.