If you suffer from chronic rhinitis, you may benefit from a treatment called ClariFix. Chronic rhinitis is a condition in which people experience a constantly running nose, congestion, and/or post nasal drip. It can be very disruptive to one’s day-to-day life. If nasal sprays and/or medications are not working, this procedure makes use of cryotherapy to immediately stop the symptoms of chronic rhinitis.
How does ClariFix work?
ClariFix uses cryotherapy (the use of freezing temperatures) to accomplish nerve ablation. In chronic rhinitis, the nerves malfunction, sending too many signals which cause the symptoms experienced. ClariFix targets just the nerves and preserves the collagen and other tissue and structures within the nose.
What is the ClariFix procedure like?
This is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done in office. Your doctor will give you a topical or local anesthetic, then will insert an endoscope into your nose to help them see the area. They will then insert the ClariFix cryoablation device into your nasal cavity. When the tool is in the correct place, nitrous oxide gas will be used to freeze the area responsible for your chronic rhinitis. You may feel some coldness and pressure during the procedure. The entire appointment takes less than 30 minutes, and the procedure itself lasts only a few minutes.
Are there any side effects?
There are minimal side effects associated with the ClariFix procedure. You may experience temporarily-increased congestion which should resolve within a few days after your procedure. You also may experience some discomfort the day of your procedure. Your doctor will let you know the pain relief options that are best for you should you experience any pain or discomfort.
When can I expect results, and how long do they last?
In most cases, ClariFix works with one treatment. Typically, people start seeing improvements about 2-6 weeks after their procedure. Symptoms continue to improve over the course of the next year. ClariFix has excellent results in clinical trials and the majority of people have satisfactory reduction of their chronic rhinitis symptoms. For those in whom symptoms do not improve to the desired extent, a second ClariFix procedure can help.
If you suffer from chronic rhinitis, schedule an appointment with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist today and ask if the ClariFix procedure is right for you.
