Breathing is something we often take for granted, but for Brenda Nowack, chronic sinusitis made it a daily struggle.
“I would actually wake up with (sinus pressure) and I would be so congested that I could barely get out of bed. My head would literally feel as heavy as a bowling ball,” Nowack recalled.
For years, her symptoms—including sinus infections, headaches, and facial pressure—worsened, impacting her job as a housekeeper. After yet another sinus infection in July, Nowack sought help from BayCare Clinic Ear, Nose & Throat.
“I guess I just finally said enough is enough, I need some help here because I just can’t go on this way anymore,” she said.
Dr. Jon Slezak identified a deviated septum and enlarged nasal turbinates as the root of her chronic sinus issues. He recommended septoplasty surgery.
“She had a nasal septoplasty and what’s called a submucosal resection of the inferior turbinate,” Dr. Slezak explained. “The septum separates the nasal cavities and can often shift to one side. We remove the structural component causing the issue while maintaining enough support to preserve the nose’s appearance.”
Nowack’s recovery exceeded expectations—she was back to work in two weeks.
“I am absolutely over the moon with the results. I feel so much more energy, I can breathe, I have more endurance now and the congestion is gone. I’m tickled pink,” she said.
Watch the full clip here.