Not See Evil In Cowtowne

Citadel Doppelgängers for Toob-Feeding Lemmings. All is Abetted by Calamity-News and Corn-pone-Media Quislings. The GWOT Core of Manifest Destiny aka Exceptional- and Z- and Jingo- isms are Mandates for Eviscerating Natives' Resources an Explicit Neo-Cannibalism. This Manic Tyranny of Unsustainable Reactionary Paradigms is Shock-Doctrined by the Hoaxed "Unawareness" of Ideological, Humanitarian, and Military Crises. "Left" or "Right" Politics has Been Made Entirely Irrelevant.

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

The Social Cost of Capitalism, Paul Craig Roberts

​​okay, this is a nice article

​By ​
Paul Craig Roberts
Few, if any, corporations absorb the full cost of their operations. Corporations shove many of their costs onto the environment, the public sector, and distant third parties. For example, currently 3 million gallons of toxic waste water from a Colorado mine has escaped and is working its way down two rivers into Utah and Lake Powell. At least seven city water systems dependent on the rivers have been shut down. The waste was left by private enterprise, and the waste was accidentally released by the Environmental Protection Agency, which might be true or might be a coverup for the mine. If the Lake Powell reservoir ends up polluted, it is likely that the cost of the mine imposed on third parties exceeds the total value of the mine's output over its entire life.
Economists call these costs "external costs" or "social costs." The mine made its profits by creating pollutants, the cost of which is born by those who had no share in the profits.
As this is the way regulated capitalism works, you can imagine how bad unregulated capitalism would be. Just think about the unregulated financial system, the consequences we are still suffering with more to come.
Despite massive evidence to the contrary, libertarians hold tight to their romantic concept of capitalism, which, freed from government interference, serves the consumer with the best products at the lowest prices.
If only.
Progressives have their own counterpart to the libertarians' romanticism. Progressives regard government as the white knight that protects the public from the greed of capitalists.
If only.
Everyone, and most certainly libertarians and progressives, should read Jeffrey St. Clair's book, Born Under A Bad Sky (2008). St. Clair is an engaging writer, and his book is rewarding on many levels. If you have never floated the Western rivers or met the challenge of treacherous rapids or camped among mosquitoes and rattlesnakes, you can experience these facets of life vicariously with St. Clair, while simultaneously learning how corruption in the Park Service, the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management results in timber companies, mining companies, and cattle ranchers making money by plundering national forests and public lands.
The public subsidies provided to miners, loggers, and ranchers are as extravagant and as harmful to the public interest as the subsidies that the Federal Reserve and Treasury provide to the "banks too big to fail."
Progressives and libertarians need to read St. Clair's accounts of how the Forest Service creates roads into trackless forests in order to subsidize timber companies' felling of old growth forest and habitat destruction for endangered and rare species. Our romanticists need to learn how less valuable lands are traded for more valuable public lands in order to transfer wealth from the public to private hands. They need to learn that allowing ranchers to utilize public lands results in habitat destruction and the destruction of stream banks and aquatic life. They need to understand that the heads of the federal protective agencies themselves are timber, mining, and ranching operatives who work for private companies and not for the public. Americans of all persuasions need to understand that just as senators and representatives are bought and paid for by the military/security complex, Wall Street, and the Israel Lobby, they are owned also by mining, timber and ranching interests.
The public interest is nowhere in the picture.
The two largest reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, are at 39% and 52% of capacity. The massive lakes on which the Western United States is dependent are drying up. And now Lake Powell is faced with receiving 3 million gallons of waste water containing arsenic, lead, copper, aluminum and cadmium. Wells in the flood plains of the polluted rivers are also endangered.
The pollutants, which turned the rivers orange, flowed down the Animas River from Silverton, Colorado through Durango into the San Juan River in Farmington, New Mexico, a river that flows into the Colorado River that feeds Lake Powell and Lake Mead.
All of this damage from one capitalist mine.
In November of last year, US Rep. Chris Stewart (R.Utah) got his bill passed by the House. Stewart is a hit man for capitalism. His bill "is designed to prevent qualified, independent scientists from advising the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They will be replaced with industry affiliated choices, who may or may not have relevant scientific expertise, but whose paychecks benefit from telling the EPA what their employers want to hear." http://www.iflscience.com/environment/epa-barred-getting-advice-scientists
Rep. Stewart says it is a matter of balancing scientific facts with industry interests.
And there you have it.
​​
​http://www.amazon.com/Born-Under-Bad-Sky-Counterpunch/dp/1904859704​


Dr. Paul Craig Roberts was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Economic Policy and associate editor of the Wall Street Journal. He was columnist for Business Week, Scripps Howard News Service, and Creators Syndicate. He has had many university appointments. His internet columns have attracted a worldwide following. Roberts' latest books are The Failure of Laissez Faire Capitalism and Economic Dissolution of the West and How America Was Lost.

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Saturday, July 4, 2015

Regulation is a war being lost to regulation.

"Regulated Hedge Fund" sounds like an oxymoron.

Risk Management, as well as profitability, are wars being lost to regulation. 
Regulation is a war being lost to regulation.
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Friday, July 3, 2015

~Redacted...HORRIBLE Risks from nose surgery (what are the gains in my situation?)

recommended to purchase gauze pads prior to surgery so that the patient will have enough
​ 


​ ​
maybe waiting two weeks is better?
the procedures are:

​​
endoscopic sinus surgery (~90% left and 
​50% ? ​
most of right are occluded
​?​
, or loaded with polyps...
​ the CT scan shows significant impairments)​

​​
septoplasty:  making it straight 
​<
​I've always heard these sinus fixes are useful for ~2 years, then some reversion to bad happens>
 
 
​​
submucous reduction of inferior turbinates
(reduce the size of the lower
​ 'turbinates' 
near the bottom of the nostril?) 


RECOVERY: DEPENDING
 ​
on the extent of the surgery, recovery may take a few days. It may take up to 3 to 5 days <some people said weeks, months, never, or got worse than before> to feel completely back to normal.

HOWEVER there are numerous comments here from patients with horrible recovery pains, and lack of improvement or INCREASED symptoms of bad stuff.  MAYBE MY CIRCUMSTANCES ARE NOT SO GRAVE TO PURSE IMMEDIATE SURGERY?
I FEEL LIKE THIS MIGHT BE THE WORST DECISION THAT I WILL EVER MAKE!?
... compared with
​... already having some health concerns.​
​
 

Some patients have found frozen vegetables in packages (for example bags of frozen peas) to be a convenient ice pack which nicely conforms to the face. The frozen material should be separated from the skin by a towel or similar barrier to avoid any skin damage. Many clinicians suggest periods of 15 minutes of such ice-pack treatment followed by 15 minutes of removal to not damage the skin.

Moderate bleeding from the nose is normal, and will gradually decrease. The gauze dressing ("mustache dressing") will collect blood and should be changed as needed. It is not unusual to change these dressings every hour during the first 24 hours after surgery.

​   ​
It is recommended to purchase gauze pads prior to surgery so that the patient will have enough
​   ​
 for dressing changes. After a few days the patient will probably not need to use the dressing any longer. Do not take aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen/Advil,Naprosyn, < okay, WHAT is taken for a possibly extreme, prolonged series of PAIN?> and others) for as long as the surgeon has instructed following surgery, because such medications may increase bleeding and slow clotting at the surgical site.

in our speedy conversation: these side effect dangers below were not mentioned (its a subset of a big list at page)   http://www.medicinenet.com/sinus_surgery/article.htm )

  • Permanent numbness of the upper teeth, palate, or face.
  • Nasal obstruction due to failure to control infection or polyps.
  • Prolonged pain, impaired healing, and the need for hospitalization.
  • Failure to restore or worsening of the sense of smell or taste. Continue Reading
Some form of a narcotic < I would like to have a lot of pills in case they are critical during the first days, in fact it might be too painful for me to be driven to Glenview for 2nd day post-op check?>   may also be prescribed and is to be taken as needed for pain. If the patient requires narcotics, they should not drive and should consider having a responsible person stay with them. In some situations the doctor may give steroids to be taken either preoperatively and/or postoperatively


lifetime care advice: from http://www.medicinenet.com/sinus_surgery/page5.htmMaximize Moisture. Patients should always remember to maximize moisture in their nose. Keeping sinuses moist makes mucus thinner, allowing the sinuses to drain better. This drainage in turn helps prevent infection. Use a humidifier, drink plenty of water, avoid drying substances such as alcohol and caffeine, try to avoid smoke which dries out sinus linings, and use plenty of saline irrigation

also... "Avoid Allergens"  "Avoid smoky places" "Prevent colds"

----------  Try not to rest eye glasses on the bridge of the nose until soreness and swelling subside. People may wear contact lenses once eye swelling and any eye irritation has resolved.--------------

Patient Comments: Deviated Septum Surgery - Complications

Comment from: NashMatt, 35-44 Male (Patient)Published: June 04

It has been 4 years since I had septoplasty and turbinate reduction. For me, it has been incredibly successful. My breathing feels free whereas before there was constantly a resistance through my right nostril. I also had recurring colds that turn into sinus infections which many general practitioners did not want to give antibiotics for. Now, I get sick much less frequently. When I do take on a cold it makes me feel crummy, but it is not nearly as severe as before where I did not feel like doing anything. I still have chronic drainage and inside my nostrils tends to be dryer and crusty, but I would have the surgery again without hesitation.

Comment from: unknown, 19-24 Male (Patient)Published: October 15

I had septoplasty and partial turbinectomy in October 2012 but after 8 days I felt some kind of blockage behind my left ear. When at night I go to sleep, my neck and ear go red hot with a very low sound of whistling in my left year and after a few days my body muscles started getting hard from my neck up to my foot.

Comment from: none, 19-24 Female (Caregiver)Published: December 17

My son says, "I would rather have my wisdom teeth out every other month for the rest of my life." I think some are having minor procedures and others major. It takes two extra strength hydrocodone to enable him to get any sleep. He heard a dripping sound in his head for several hours after and eventually threw up a stomach full of blood. The headache is as bad as the surgical pain, and he can't stand light or sound.

Comment from: Deepak, 19-24 Male (Patient)Published: August 13

How frequently the septum perforation occurs. I have gone through septoplasty once, but no benefit. :( So, after 3 yrs I am going to have another septoplasty.

Comment from: Skunky, 65-74 Female (Patient)Published: July 29

I have a problem with smelling odors that no one else can smell. I now think this is from the septum and turbinate surgery. The odor is sometimes slightly skunky and sometimes like a cooking odor...when I'm not cooking!



Patient Comments are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your physician or other qualified health provider because of something you have read on MedicineNet. 

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Fwd: HORRIBLE Risks from nose surgery (what are the gains?) ||||||| Fwd: the surgery items... worth investigating; or in time for Monday


Date: Thu, Jul 2, 2015 at 11:26 PM
Subject: HORRIBLE Risks from nose surgery (what are the gains?) 

maybe waiting two weeks is better?
the procedures are:

​​
endoscopic sinus surgery (~90% left and 
​50% ? ​
most of right are occluded
​?​
, or loaded with polyps...
​ the CT scan shows significant impairments)​

​​
septoplasty:  making it straight 
​<
​I've always heard these sinus fixes are useful for ~2 years, then some reversion to bad happens>
 
 
​​
submucous reduction of inferior turbinates
(reduce the size of the lower
​ 'turbinates' 
near the bottom of the nostril?) ​

I was asking him about getting a 2nd opinion,and
​Dr. L.
did
​ not
 approach the question;he did login to the Epic (newer) system
​ ​
and see
​Dr. D's
notes. That was not
​ ​
too helpful, he CT scan might have been good
​
to see again.

Introduction: 

This information on recovery is very helpful...
then there are lots of cool graphics,
then there are
​(Medically Documented)​
 HORRIBLE RISKS IN DETAIL,
and then there are extremely scary 
​comments from some ~recent patients having​
experiences of
​great ​
pain
​, endless recovery,​
and permanent damage...

and after that is a brief, and similar
recap of this stuff from Stanford.med
and they mention the  risks similar to
what Dr D
​.
 had said, but
​AFAIK ​
he did not
​ 
mention the 
bright yellow 
​ 
(permanent tooth numbness or loss of smell)
He did mention the items in green
​, also seen in t
he Stanford list.
I feel terrible about doing this
​ triple-procedure surgery​
,
and
​at the moment ​
don't recall anything about what
​ assurances
were provided regarding​
​​
the
​ distinct 
benefits of the surgery
​.
"If" there was an extra day to cancel,
then I'm pretty sure that I would cancel it.
(
​side-note:
I just watched two episodes of
my show, and feel much less terrified)

http://www.medicinenet.com/nasal_airway_surgery/page6.htm#what_happens_after_deviated_septum_surgery_septoplasty_or__turbinectomy


IN THIS ARTICLE

When to call the doctor after septoplasty or turbinectomy

Patients should notify the doctor if they have:

  1. A sudden increase in the amount of bleeding from the nose unrelieved by pressure, ice, and head elevation.
  2. A fever greater than 101.5 F (38.6 C) that persists despite increasing the amount of fluid and acetaminophen (Tylenol). A person with a fever should try to drink approximately one cup of fluid each waking hour.
  3. Persistent sharp pain or headachewhich is not relieved by the pain medication prescribed.
  4. Increased swelling or redness of the nose or eyes.

Most surgeons want to know about complications or problems that develop with their patients; do not be hesitant to call the surgeon to inform them and ask questions about any problems he or she is experiencing. Continue Reading

Picture of the anatomy of the sinuses
Picture of the anatomy of the sinuses

Picture of the detail of the sinuses
Picture of the detail of the sinuses

What are the risks and complications of sinus surgery?

The following complications of sinus surgery have been reported in the medical literature. This list is not meant to be inclusive of every possible complication. It is here for patient information only - not to make patients overly concerned - but to make them aware and more knowledgeable concerning potential aspects of sinus surgery. The surgeon will review the risks and benefits of the surgery when obtaining consent for the operation, and will be able to discuss the chance of these complications with respect to an individual's potential risks of surgery at that time.

  • Failure to resolve the sinus infections or recurrence of sinus problems and/or polyps.
  • Bleeding. In very rare situations, a need for blood products or a blood transfusion may be required. Patients have the right, should they choose, to have autologous (using their own stored blood) or designated donor blood prepared in advance in case an emergency transfusion is necessary. Patients are encouraged to consult with their doctor regarding these issues if they are interested.
  • Chronic nasal drainage or excessive dryness or crusting of the nose.
  • Need for further and more aggressive surgery.
  • Need for allergy evaluation, treatments, or environmental controls. Surgery is not a cure for or a substitute for good allergy control or treatment.
  • Failure to improve or resolve concurrent respiratory illness such as, but not limited to, asthma, bronchitis, or cough.
  • Failure to resolve associated "sinus or nasal" headaches. The exact cause of headaches can be difficult to determine and may have many different causes that are not sinus-related.
  • The patient or physician may require consultation with another specialist such as a neurologist.
  • ​Was mentioned= ​
    Damage to the eye and its associated structures.
  • ​Was mentioned= ​
    Damage to the skull base with resultant meningitis, brain abscess, or leakage of spinal fluid    .
  • ​Do not recall being mentioned! ​

  • ​​
    Permanent numbness of the upper teeth, palate, or face.
  • Nasal obstruction due to failure to control infection or polyps.
  • ​​
    Prolonged pain, impaired healing, and the need for hospitalization.
  • Failure to restore or worsening of the sense of smell or taste. Continue Reading
Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 10/14/2014

Patient Comments

Viewers share their comments

Sinus Surgery - RecoveryHow long was the recovery period of your sinus surgery?
Sinus Surgery - ExperienceShare your experience with sinus surgery.

Nasal Airway Surgery (cont.)

IN THIS ARTICLE

What happens after deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) or turbinectomy?

After surgery, the patient will be taken to the recovery room where a nurse will monitor the patient. They will be able to go home the same day as the surgery once fully recovered from the anesthetic. This usually takes several hours. The patient will need a friend or family member to pick them up from the surgical facility and take them home. It may be necessary for the family member or friend to spend the first night [ someplace]  with the patient after surgery for assistance.

...//...Patients may have some swelling of the nose, upper lip, cheeks, or around the eyes for several days after surgery. This swelling will gradually resolve and is normal. They can help reduce the swelling by putting ice on the face, bridge of the nose, and eyes as much as tolerated. This will also help with postoperative edema and pain. Some patients have found frozen vegetable in packages (for example bags of frozen peas) to be a convenient ice pack which is more likely to conform to the face.

Moderate bleeding from the nose is normal, and will gradually decrease. The gauze dressing ("mustache dressing") will collect blood and should be changed only when saturated. It is not unusual to change these dressings every hour during the first 24 hours after surgery. After a few days, patients will usually no longer need to use the dressing. Patients should not take aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen for three weeks following surgery.  <this sounds HORRIBLE, he did not mention awful, creepy things about afterward, he just mentioned the 1% chance of brain/eye getting damaged from inside the nose> 


Picture of Mustache Dressing
Picture of Mustache Dressing

It is best for patients to eat a light, soft, and cool diet as tolerated once recovered fully from the anesthetic. Hot liquids should be avoided for several days. Even though the individual may be hungry immediately after surgery, it is best to proceed slowly with food intake to prevent postoperative nauseaand vomiting. Occasionally, the person may vomit one or two times immediately after surgery; if vomiting persists, the doctor can prescribe medication to settle the stomach. It is important to remember that a good overall diet with ample rest promotes healing.

Patients will be prescribed antibiotics after surgery, and should finish all the pills that have been prescribed. Some form of a narcotic may also be prescribed and is to be taken as needed. If patients require narcotics, they are cautioned not to drive. In some situations the doctor may prescribe steroids to reduce inflammation either preoperatively and/or postoperatively. It is very important that patients take this medication as prescribed, and not discontinue it prematurely. If patients have nausea or vomiting postoperatively, they may be prescribed anti-nausea medications (antiemetics). If patients have any questions or they feel they are developing a reaction to any of these medications, they should consult their doctor. Patients should not take any other medication, either prescribed or over-the-counter, unless they have discussed the medications with the doctor. Continue Reading

General instructions and follow-up care for deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) or turbinectomy

In most situations, packs will have been placed in the nose to control bleeding; often times a septal splint <this was NOT mentioned, so there will be only stiches, AFAIK> is placed that will be removed by the surgeon at the first post-operative visit. The doctor will let the patient know when they are to return to the office to have these packs removed. Patients may need to call the office to schedule this postoperative appointment and should arrange for someone to drive them to and from the office for this first visit. They should eat a light meal before going, and avoid taking excessive pain medications. They will also have several subsequent office visits to assess healing, remove crusts (debris) that may accumulate at the surgical site, Such visits help insure a speedy recovery. The nose will probably be tender after surgery, so the doctor will spray it with a special numbing medication before removing crusts.

After the packing has been removed, patients may breathe through the nose, but are not to blow or sneeze through the nose for 7 to 10 days. If the person must sneeze, they should open their mouth. Patients can expect some light blood-tinged drainage from the nose for several days. If bleeding becomes excessive, apply ice and rest quietly with head elevated while holding the nose. If bleeding continues, they should call the surgeon's office for advice.

One of the most important things patients can do after surgery is nasal irrigation (rinsing). Immediately after the nasal packs are removed they should use a saline nasal spray such as "Ocean Spray" several times per day to prevent crusts from forming in their nose. Patients are to continue using irrigation until the doctor tells them to stop. Many patients will use irrigations (for example, neti-pots) indefinitely or when they have an upper respiratory infection. Failure to irrigate especially as instructed after surgery will likely cause the surgery to fail.

Patients may go back to work or school only when the doctor indicates it is safe to return. They should rest for the first week following surgery. They must also avoid excessive talking, smiling, chewing hard foods, strenuous activities, bumping their nose, bending over, and lifting heavy objects. They should not rest glasses on the bridge of the nose until soreness and swelling subsides. They may wear contact lenses once eye swelling and any irritation has resolved. Alcohol and tobacco products should be avoided because they may prolong swelling and healing. Smoke, dust, and fumes may irritate the nose and cause an infection. Facial tanning is discouraged for six months after surgery. If patients must be in the sun they should use a number 15 or greater sun block. Patients may use their usual make-up any time after surgery.

Patients should lubricate the nostrils, as instructed with a Q-tip and Vaseline to soften crusts that are hard and firmly attached to healing tissue. Peroxide helps to loosen crusts. After several days they may notice a few of the absorbable sutures and should not try to disturb or remove them. They must be gentle while brushing the upper teeth. These teeth will often be tender for several weeks, and there may be some numbness of the teeth and palate for several months.

After three weeks if patients are not having problems with bleeding, they may resume exercise and swimming, but no diving for two months. They should plan to stay in town and not travel for three weeks to allow for postoperative care and in case bleeding occurs. Continue Reading

When to call the doctor after septoplasty or turbinectomy

Patients should notify the doctor if they have:

  1. A sudden increase in the amount of bleeding from the nose unrelieved by pressure, ice, and head elevation.
  2. A fever greater than 101.5 F (38.6 C) that persists despite increasing the amount of fluid and acetaminophen (Tylenol). A person with a fever should try to drink approximately one cup of fluid each waking hour.
  3. Persistent sharp pain or headachewhich is not relieved by the pain medication prescribed.
  4. Increased swelling or redness of the nose or eyes.

Most surgeons want to know about complications or problems that develop with their patients; do not be hesitant to call the surgeon to inform them and ask questions about any problems he or she is experiencing. Continue Reading

Medically reviewed by Martin E Zipser, MD; American board of Surgery 

REFERENCES: 

Ketcham AS, Han JK. Complications and management of septoplasty. OtolaryngolClin North Am. 2010 Aug;43(4):897-904.

MedscapeReference.com. Septoplasty

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 10/8/2014

fairly awful comments here


and even worse are these:
Sheryl, 55-64 Female (Patient)Published: February 20

I had sinus surgery and correction of a deviated septum two weeks ago. I was surprised at how much bleeding there was after the surgery. I wasn"t informed beforehand of this. I took a week off work. The only negative side-effect I am experiencing now is that my front teeth hurt. I was happy to read that this is normal because my surgeon did not inform me that this could be expected. I hope I see positive results from the procedure because it is not a minor undertaking. It will all be worth it if I see positive results - I hope to know within a few more weeks.

Comment from: ramhawks, 75 or over Male (Patient)Published: December 13

I had sinus surgery on the 13th of November and it was tough for 4 days but once the tubes were removed it was downhill all the way. I have had problems for over 50 years and now I can breathe. I have real mucus problems and I have been on sublingual drops since late October and I am improving each day. It was worth going through. I had a wonderful doctor and staff. The hospital staff was great as well. I am so glad that I finally took the step to improve my life.

Comment from: Vanidha, 45-54 Female (Patient)Published: October 28

I had my sinus operation 3 months ago, I also had a deviated septum repaired. The recovery took about two weeks, but I still have congestion even though it is not as bad as before the operation. What I do find strange is that I can consistently smell and taste phlegm, this has only started since after I had the operation. I'm not sure if this warrants a visit to the ENT or whether it will just clear eventually.

Comment from: Joy, 45-54 Female (Patient)Published: October 18

I had my sinus surgery done two days ago and the worst of it is the sore throat, I have barely been able to swallow so have eaten very little for 3 days now. I have ulcers inside my lips, I am guessing from breathing through my mouth, I also have severe bruising on the inside of my arm from trouble getting a tube inside my vein to measure my blood pressure.

Comment from: David, 45-54 Male (Patient)Published: January 03

I had sinus surgery 20 days ago. I also had fixed, a mild deviated septum. The doctor said my case was severe. For maybe 5 years I've had a snort, cough, sleep apnea, snoring, and asthma. Since surgery my asthma is worse than ever; very concerning. Sleep apnea is worse (or not improved). I sure hope it gets better! I am not giving up yet.

Comment from: Glee09, 35-44 Female (Patient)Published: April 01

I had sinus surgery 3 weeks ago and I"m just starting to feel aches and pain on the bridge of my nose.

Comment from: Jaydray, 35-44 Female (Patient)Published: January 30

I had sinus surgery 5 days ago for all sinus cavities to be opened up and nasal polyps and it is no mean feat. The pain of this surgery and not being able to blow your nose is unbearable. I just hope it was all worth it in the end.

Comment from: EB, 45-54 Female (Patient)Published: October 08

I had sinus surgery Wednesday morning and it's Friday afternoon. The bleeding is going away but gosh, it's hard to not blow my nose. I feel congested today even though I don't have any packing. I did not need the pain medications yesterday, but today I have some pain behind my eyes. I will try Tylenol (I'm not taking other drugs except allergymedications). I did a couple of sinus rinses and am trying to stay on top of the saline sprays. I also have antibiotics because I kept getting bouts of pneumonia, which the doctors thought were due to sinus issues. It is too soon to call it is a success right now as I am hurting a little bit today; generally I am optimistic. I am pretty tough and almost thought I could have gone to work but decided to take off a whole week. I am glad that I did because I have bursts of energy and then get tired again quite easily. Reading what others wrote, it seems results take a while to make themselves known. I am hoping that I am able to break the pneumonia/sinus infection cycle with this surgery.

Comment from: lioness, 35-44 Female (Patient)Published: April 04

The biggest problem I had after my surgery was the soreness in my throat from the breathing tube. I bleed for 13 hours afterwards but that didn't bother me as much as my throat did. It has been 2 weeks since the surgery and I now taste and smell blood all the time. I also have been getting a lot of headaches although they have been minor.

Comment from: Karyn, 45-54 Female (Patient)Published: August 13

Today is 24 hours after having polyps removed and I am miserable! Taking the pain meds, and been using ice pack all day with no releif! Mostly hurts on the left side around eye and temple area! Can't wait until pain start going away! My throat hurts too from the breathing tube!

Comment from: Jim, 55-64 Male (Patient)Published: July 02

I had sinus surgery 5 days ago and still have pressure and congestion. Bleeding has stopped and I still continue to rinse. Hope to get rid of congestion.

Comment from: BONNIE, 35-44 Female (Patient)Published: June 12

FOR ME -DRINKING LOTS OF FLUIDS HELPS YOU WITH BREATHING!!!!

Comment from: jjjjd, 45-54 Male (Patient)Published: May 29

I had a blocked sinus, which caused my right eye to pull back into my head. I was told this is called silent sinus syndrome. My ENT operated, and said it won't get any worse. At this point, my right eye tears a lot for no reason and I can't eat spicy foods. I used to love hot food, but now I'm too sensitive. Also I still let these giant "snots" from inside my sinuses every once in awhile. I guess you can say the surgery was a success.

Comment from: Nagles05, 35-44 Female (Patient)Published: May 13

I had sinus surgery five days ago. It was the worst pain I have ever had. I had 5-6 sinus infections since Jan of 2013. They say everyone is different, but on day 5, I still have pain and pressure that is not relieved by OTC pain relievers.

Comment from: Diane, FemalePublished: May 08

I had surgery done today. I totally agree that the worse pain is from the tube in the throat and the plate holding down the tongue. It felt like the roof of my mouth was scraped by a razor blade 50 times and I swallowed it 20 times. Nose bleeding was expected, but they don't mention this pain.

Comment from: eka30, Male (Patient)Published: April 11

I had surgery six weeks ago and have had four bleeding episodes since then. I'm still not able to resume normal activities and had to go to the ER twice. I really regret not trying other approaches first, and would advise people to think it out carefully. My surgeon made it seem like a simple one-week no-problem procedure.

Comment from: Hooah124, 35-44 Female (Patient)Published: March 01

I had sinus surgery 1.5 weeks ago, just had the splint, tubes and sutures removed today. I'm still having drainage, but not bad. I can breathe through my nose for the first time in many years. The first week of recovery was the worst, a lot of bruising and facial swelling (I had a lot of damage that had to be repaired, so probably what made it worse). I still have some slight bruising under the eyes and my nose is swollen, but other than that recovering well. Biggest thing is to do your research and find a good doctor.

Comment from: 45-54 Female (Patient)Published: February 19

I had sinus surgery 1 1/2 years ago and still have pain and numbness. I have seen four ENTs and am still dealing with these symptoms.

Comment from: 25-34 Female (Patient)Published: February 14

I am 5 days post-op from my sinus surgery and also had a deviated septum fixed. I can't breathe out of my nose yet, but I still have my splints in my nose. My nose is very tender, but it feels so good to do the nasal irrigations. I have been experiencing the same sinus headaches and pressure as before surgery and I hope these symptoms will go away as I recover more. All and all, the surgery wasn't as bad as most people made it out to be. I just hope it works and keeps me from getting sick all the time.

Comment from: Dianej, 45-54 Female (Patient)Published: January 08

I had 6 different things done, so my surgery was more extensive than some. The splints and packing was horrible. I was having trouble breathing out of my mouth. The breathing tube pain was also very bad, but I'm so stuffy. It's my third day out, and I'm miserable. I can't breathe at all through my nose even though I have done the saline rinse. My nose is so sore as well I can hardly wash my face. Ice feels good on face.

Comment from: bill, 45-54 Male (Patient)Published: January 04

It's been 4 weeks since I had surgery. I had splints put in for recovery for 1 week, after that I could breathe great through my nose but still have loss of smell and taste and talk nasally. They tell you not to blow but it's hard, saline rinse works to correct healing from this. I go back again in a few days to discuss these issues, I'm not even sure if I have a sinus infection or not I've been taking Sudafed on and off to keep things feeling right.

Comment from: muneersm, 35-44 Male (Patient)Published: December 11

Following sinus drain my doctor did another procedure called cryo surgery to correct my septal deviation. After that I started loosing my sense of smell. For the past 12 years I have been suffering a lot due to this 70% loss of smell.

 
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http://med.stanford.edu/ohns/sinuscenter/resources/sinus_guide.html​

Endoscopic sinus surgery is a procedure designed to open the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses to restore their function and health. In chronic sinusitis, the sinuses are unable to drain adequately due to inflammation of the narrow drainage pathways. As a result, nasal secretions can become trapped in the sinuses and become chronically infected​ <?  not

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.The goal of surgery is to carefully remove the thin, delicate bone and mucous membranes that block the drainage pathways of the sinuses. The term "endoscopic" refers to the use of small fiberoptic telescopes that allow all of the surgery to be performed through the nostrils, without the need for any skin incisions. Endoscopic sinus surgery is generally performed on an outpatient basis.

​Before Surgery: In preparation for your surgery, your physician may prescribe preoperative medications to optimize the condition of your sinuses for surgery. The medications may include antibiotics and/or oral steroids. Please be sure to start any preoperative medications on the appropriate day and adhere closely to the prescription. In addition, you should avoid taking the following medications for at least fourteen days prior to surgery: aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil), naproxen (Aleve), other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), vitamin E (multivitamin is OK), gingko biloba, garlic (tablets), and ginseng. These medications can thin the blood and create excessive bleeding. Tylenol is safe and may be taken anytime up to the day of surgery. St. John's wort should also be avoided for 2 weeks prior to surgery because of possible interactions with anesthesia medications. If you take the blood thinner Coumadin, please discuss discontinuation of this medication with your surgeon.

If you smoke, it is critical that you stop smoking for at least three weeks prior to surgery, and at least four weeks after surgery. Smoking can contribute to scarring, poor healing, and failure of the operation. Your primary care physician can direct you to resources for smoking cessation. Finally, it is important to inform your primary care physician that you are planning to have sinus surgery

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. Your primary care physician can help to clear you medically for surgery. Most of the necessary pre-operative testing will be performed at Stanford on the day of your preoperative visit, but occasionally we will request old records from your primary care physician. We will make every effort to keep your primary care physician informed regarding your medical status both before and after your surgery.

During Surgery: In most cases, you will receive general anesthesia for your surgery, which means you will be asleep for the entire procedure. However, if you have a preference for local anesthesia, please let your doctor know as this may also be an option in some cases. After your surgery has been completed, you will spend about one hour in the recovery room, followed by an additional recovery period of 1-2 hours in the second stage recovery unit. Most patients feel well enough to go home the day of surgery. You will most likely go home without nasal packing.

After Surgery: You can expect mild bleeding for 1-2 days after surgery and a general sense of fatigue for 1-2 weeks after surgery. In general, pain can be successfully controlled with narcotic or non-narcotic medications. For more details about postoperative care, please see the separate guide, "Postoperative Care Instructions." You will have a series of postoperative visits that are critical for a successful outcome. At each visit your doctor will perform a procedure called nasal endoscopy to check how the sinuses are healing. An additional procedure called debridement may be necessary in order to clean blood from the sinuses and prevent early scar tissue formation. (Please note that these procedures are not included in the surgical charge and thus are billed separately.) Your visit schedule will usually consist of 3 visits over the first 6 weeks. Thereafter, your visits will be spaced a few months apart, depending on how well your sinuses are healing.


Risks of Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, endoscopic sinus surgery has associated risks. Although the chance of a complication occurring are very small, it is important that you understand the potential complications and ask your surgeon about any concerns you may have.

  • Bleeding: Most sinus surgery involves some degree of blood loss, which is generally well tolerated by the patient. However, on occasion, significant bleeding may require termination of the procedure. Although most patients do not require nasal packing, a few patients will require a small nasal pack or tissue spacer to be removed after one week. Blood transfusion is rarely necessary and is given only in an emergency.
  • Recurrence of disease: Although endoscopic sinus surgery provides significant symptomatic benefits for the vast majority of patients, surgery is not a cure for sinusitis. Therefore, you can expect to continue with your sinus medications even after successful sinus surgery, although in general your requirements for such medications should be lessened. In some instances, additional "touch-up" or revision surgery may be necessary to optimize your surgical outcome.
  • Spinal fluid leak: Because the sinuses are located near the brain, there is a rare chance of creating a leak of spinal fluid (the fluid lining the brain) or injuring the brain. Should the rare complication of a spinal fluid leak occur, it may create a potential pathway for infection, which could result in meningitis. If a spinal fluid leak were to occur, it would require surgical closure and hospitalization.
  • Visual problems: Visual loss has been reported after sinus surgery due to injury to the eye or optic nerve. The potential for recovery in such cases is not good. Fortunately, such a complication is extremely rare. Injury to the eye muscles may result in double vision. Persistent tearing of the eye is another possible complication. Tearing problems usually resolve on their own but occasionally require additional surgery.
  • Other risks: Other uncommon risks of surgery include alteration of sense of smell or taste; persistence and/or worsening of sinus symptoms and facial pain; change in the resonance or quality of the voice; and swelling or bruising of the area around the eye.

Some patients have a crooked nasal septum ("deviated septum") that needs to be corrected at the time of surgery through a short procedure called septoplasty. This procedure is performed through a small hidden incision and involves dissolvable stitches that are hidden in the nostril area. If you require septoplasty, there are additional risks associated with this procedure. The primary risks are bleeding or infection in the area of the septum; numbness of the front teeth; the development of a hole through the septum (septal perforation); brain fluid leak; or recurrence of septal deviation. There is a very small risk that such occurrences could alter the external appearance of the nose.


Restrictions during postoperative recovery period

For the first week following surgery you should not blow your nose. In addition, you should not bend, strain, or lift more than 20 lbs. during the first week. Light walking and regular household activities are acceptable anytime after surgery. You may resume exercise at 50% intensity after one week and at full intensity after two weeks. You should plan on taking one week off from work and ideally have a half-day planned for your first day back.


Conclusion

We at the Stanford Sinus Center are committed to providing you with the highest level of care in a comfortable and caring environment. We want you to have as complete an understanding as possible about your sinus condition and about our recommendations for treatment. Please feel free to ask questions about any aspect of your care, and we will be happy to make sure that all of your questions have been answered​
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