Nasal endoscopy is a test to view the inside of the nose and sinus to check for problems.

How The Test Is Performed

The test takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Your health care provider will:
 Spray your nose with a medicine to reduce swelling and numb the area.
 Insert the nasal endoscope into your nose. This is a long flexible or rigid tube with a camera at the end to look inside the nose and sinus. Pictures may be projected onto a screen.
 Examine the inside of your nose and sinuses.
 Remove polyps, mucus, or other masses from the nose or sinuses.

How To Prepare For The Test

 You do not need to anything to prepare for the test.

How The Test Will Feel

This test does not hurt.

You may feel discomfort or pressure as the tube is put into your nose.

The spray numbs your nose. It can numb your mouth and throat, and you may feel like you can’t swallow. This numbness goes away in 20 to 30 minutes.

You might sneeze during the test. If you feel a sneeze coming on, let your provider know.