Nasal endoscopy

Category: Endoscopy & Camera Tests · All endoscopy & camera tests

Nasal endoscopy — Endoscopy & Camera Tests

What it is

Nasal endoscopy (nasendoscopy) examines the inside of the nose, sinuses openings, throat and voice box using a thin flexible camera passed through the nose. It is a standard ENT clinic test.

Why it is done

It is used to investigate persistent blocked nose, sinus symptoms, nosebleeds, voice changes, swallowing concerns and to check the upper airway in sleep apnoea assessment.

How to prepare

There is usually no preparation. You can eat and drink normally. Tell the clinician about allergies and any previous nasal surgery.

What happens during the procedure

You sit upright in a clinic chair. A decongestant or anaesthetic spray may be used in the nose. The scope passes gently along the floor of the nose while you breathe normally; you may be asked to make sounds or swallow so the throat and voice box can be assessed. It takes about 5 minutes and causes brief discomfort rather than pain for most people.

Afterwards — recovery & results

You can return to normal activities immediately. If anaesthetic spray was used, wait until the numb feeling in the throat has worn off before eating or drinking hot fluids.

Risks & considerations

Risks are minimal — brief discomfort, sneezing, watering eyes and occasionally a small nosebleed. Serious complications are very rare.

Watch: Nasal endoscopy videos

Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.

Frequently asked questions

Does it hurt?

Most people describe pressure and an odd sensation rather than pain, and it is over in a few minutes. The spray helps numb the nose first.

Can it show why my voice is hoarse?

Yes — it directly views the voice box and how the vocal cords move, which is the key examination for persistent hoarseness.

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Please note: This page is educational information about a medical procedure or test. It does not replace the instructions of your own care team, who know your situation and whose preparation, fasting and medication advice you should follow if it differs from anything here. If you have symptoms that worry you, or an appointment you do not understand, contact your clinical team.