Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, which are hollow spaces within the bones between your eyes, behind your cheekbones, and in your forehead. They make mucus to keep the inside of your nose moist, which helps protect against dust, allergens, and pollutants. When your sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection that feels like a cold that will never go away—treating the symptoms of sinusitis can provide you with lasting relief, so you feel like yourself again.
Multiple factors cause sinusitis
Sinus infections occur when the lining of the sinus cavities becomes inflamed, which causes a buildup of mucous. This creates the ideal environment for bacteria and other microorganisms. Part of why sinusitis is difficult to treat is because so many different factors can cause it. Some examples of what can cause sinusitis include:
- The common cold
- Allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps
- A deviated septum
- Blocked drainage ducts
- Immune system deficiencies
- Medications that suppress the immune system
In children specifically, sinusitis is caused by:
- Allergies
- Illnesses carried by other children at school
- Pacifiers
- Drinking a bottle while lying on their back
- Smoke in their environment, such as secondhand smoke
Sinusitis symptoms can be debilitating
Recurrent or chronic sinusitis can be debilitating, especially when your symptoms are persistent. The most common symptoms of sinusitis include:
- Facial pressure or pain
- Congestion
- Nasal obstruction
- Loss of smell and taste
- Runny nose
- Throat irritation
- Headaches
- Bad breath
- Persistent cough
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Dental pain
When untreated, sinusitis can significantly impact the quality of life, with some studies showing a strong association with mood disorders such as depression.
Sinusitis symptoms can be treated
Some sinus infections can get better on their own without antibiotics or other treatments, but it is often a good idea to be evaluated by a doctor. Treatment is required for chronic sinus infections, which last 12 weeks or longer.
Your ENT may recommend you use an over-the-counter decongestant and saline nasal washes or drops. Or, you may want to try a bioelectric device that emits micro-current waves, causing painless vibrations to help clear sinus congestion. Using a vaporizer for warm, moist air may provide relief to your nasal passages if you have chronic sinusitis.
If your ENT gives you antibiotics, you’ll probably take them for 10 to 14 days, after which the symptoms usually disappear. Your ENT may also prescribe a steroid treatment to complement the antibiotics.
Various other treatment options for sinusitis symptoms include:
- Avoiding triggers
- An antihistamine if allergies cause your sinusitis
- An antifungal treatment
- Balloon sinuplasty
- Endoscopic sinus procedures
- Septoplasty
- Nasal turbinate reduction
- CalriFix cryotherapy
- VivAer radiofrequency
- RhinAer radiofrequency
Texas ENT Specialists treat the main symptoms of sinusitis
Texas ENT Specialists are the best choice to have all your sinus and nasal concerns managed and treated. Our providers are board certified in otolaryngology, so they deeply understand nasal sinus anatomy and disorders. Our highly trained surgical specialists will ensure that you receive the highest level of care and comprehensive treatment with various diagnostic and treatment options. Whether with medical management, surgeries, in-office procedures, or other novel techniques, our physicians will work with you every step of the way to get the relief you need.
