Chronic respiratory diseases are often accompanied by pain, irritation in the nasopharynx, dryness or nasal congestion, and other unpleasant sensations. Unfortunately, not all of them can be cured with drops, taking anti-inflammatory medications or rinsing. As for the listed symptoms, they may not be signs colds, but point to diseases.
For example, the nasal sinuses, the main functions of which are: warming and moistening the air during breathing, enhancing voice resonance. Therefore, it is in them that pathogenic microorganisms most often enter along with oxygen. It is very dangerous to engage in self-diagnosis; if you have unpleasant symptoms, you should contact an otolaryngologist as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct the necessary studies and prescribe the optimal treatment.
The most effective method for examining the tissues of the sinuses is magnetic resonance imaging. The technique allows to identify inflammation, tumors and other painful conditions of the organ.
What MRI of the nose, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses shows
The technique allows diagnosing:
- Genetic or acquired disorders in the structure of the upper respiratory tract.
- Inflammatory processes in the area under study.
- A collection of pus or other fluid in the sinuses.
- Cysts, abscesses, polyps.
- Oncological neoplasms.
- Metastases.
MRI with contrast is used to diagnose tumors. Using the technique, it is possible to assess the nature of the neoplasm (benign or malignant),as well as to determine the location of painful formations, their number and size as accurately as possible.
Indications for MRI of the sinuses
The otolaryngologist directs the patient to MRI of the sinuses in the following cases:
- Frequent pains of unknown origin in the forehead, cheekbones or head.
- Change in voice (twang, hoarseness, etc.).
- Reduced visual acuity.
- Bleeding in the sinuses.
- Decrease or complete loss of smell.
- Uncharacteristic sinus discharge (pus, blood, mucus).
- Nosebleeds.
- Chronic runny nose, including allergic.
- Congestion or a feeling of a foreign object in the nose.
- Suspicion of neoplasms, cysts, fungal sinusitis.
- Anomalies in the structure of the paranasal sinuses.
MRI is performed for sinusitis and as part of a comprehensive diagnosis to monitor the treatment of tonsillitis, chronic rhinitis, sinusitis, or after respiratory surgery.
Contraindications for MRI of the paranasal sinuses
Diagnosis is absolutely safe, but in some cases it is not recommended. Restrictions include:
- Presence of metal grafts in the patient's body.
- Implanted pacemaker.
Magnetic resonance imaging with contrast is not performed when:
- Pregnancy and lactation.
- Hypersensitivity to the drugs used or allergies.
- Renal failure.
Patients with claustrophobia are advised to warn the doctor and medical staff about the presence of morbid fear. In this case, medical workers will take care of the additional comfort of the patient and personal recommendations for him on how to proceed. in case of a panic attack.
