Breathe Easier This Season: How a Sinus CT Scan Can Help

Spring is finally here—bringing sunshine, flowers, and a wave of sneezing, congestion, and sinus pressure for many people. While this season is beautiful, it can also trigger sinus issues due to an increase in allergens like pollen, mold spores, and dust. If you're experiencing persistent sinus pain, headaches, or difficulty breathing through your nose, especially during allergy season, your doctor may recommend a sinus CT scan to get a clearer picture of what’s going on.

What Is a CT Scan of the Sinuses?

A CT (computed tomography) scan of the sinuses is a specialized imaging test that provides detailed, cross-sectional views of the sinus cavities in your face. Unlike standard X-rays, which show only basic structures, a CT scan offers a much more precise and three-dimensional image, allowing your doctor to see soft tissues, bones, air spaces, and any blockages or abnormalities within the sinuses.

The scan is typically quick and non-invasive. Most sinus CTs do not require contrast dye, and there’s no downtime afterward. You lie down on the scanner bed, remain still while the scanner rotates around your head, and the images are captured.

What Is It Used For?

Doctors usually order a CT sinus scan when your symptoms suggest there might be more going on than just allergies or a common cold. This can include things like frequent or long-lasting sinus infections, pressure or pain around your face, constant congestion or postnasal drip, headaches that seem to start in your sinuses, or a reduced sense of smell. The scan helps your doctor see what’s causing the problem and whether something like nasal polyps or a structural issue—like a deviated septum—is to blame.

A sinus CT scan is especially helpful in diagnosing chronic sinusitis, fluid buildup, or inflammation that doesn’t go away with regular treatment. It can also detect less common issues, such as growths or tumors in the sinus cavities. If surgery is being considered, the scan helps your provider plan the safest and most effective approach by clearly showing the structure of your sinuses.

Schedule Your Sinus CT Scan at Invision Sally Jobe

If you’re experiencing persistent sinus issues this spring, a CT scan may be the first step to finding relief. Invision Sally Jobe offers CT sinus imaging at all of our locations that provide CT services, with quick appointment availability and expert, compassionate care.

To schedule your CT sinus exam, call us at (720) 493-3700 or visit www.invisionsallyjobe.com to learn more. We’re here to help you breathe easier and feel better this season.