Sinusitis / Chronic Sinusitis
Sinusitis means your sinuses are infected or inflamed. Your sinuses are hollow air spaces within the bones surrounding the nose. They produce mucus, which drains into the nose. If your nose is swollen, this can block the sinuses and cause pain and infection. Sinusitis can be acute, lasting for less than four weeks, or chronic, lasting much longer. Acute sinusitis often starts as a cold, which then turns into a bacterial infection. Allergies, pollutants, nasal problems and certain diseases can also cause sinusitis.
Common Symptoms of Sinusitis
Non-Surgical Treatment Options For Chronic Sinusitis
Initial treatment options include antibiotics, decongestants and pain relievers. Using heat pads on the inflamed area, saline nasal sprays and vaporizers can also help. Read more tips on non-surgical treatment options for sinusitis.
Surgical Options For Chronic Sinusitis
When non-surgical treatment options and medication fails, surgery may be the only alternative for treating chronic sinusitis. The goal of surgery is to improve sinus drainage and reduce blockage of the nasal passages.
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Winter Allergies
With many of us holed up inside during the winter, we are exposed to a lot of indoor allergens. Another reason for increased winter allergies could be due to warmer winters and longer pollinating seasons. Beyond our outdoor pollinators, we have plenty of indoor allergens that can cause trouble such as dust, house mites, mold, and pet dander.
When Should I See An ENT Doctor?
If you have symptoms related to your ears, nose, or throat, it's a good idea to see an ENT provider. ENT doctors are specialists who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting these areas of the body. Some examples of when you may want to see an ENT doctor include if you are experiencing chronic ear infections, sinus infections, allergies, and snoring.
Is Loud Snoring Disrupting Your Sleep?
Sleep apnea is a common condition in which your breathing stops and starts many times while you sleep. This can prevent your body from getting enough oxygen and result in a host of symptoms such as daytime sleepiness, fatigue, dry mouth or headaches, trouble concentrating, and even mood changes or irritability.
My Stuffy Nose Is Not Getting Better!
Sinusitis occurs as the result of an inflammatory reaction or infection from a virus, bacteria, or fungus. Common symptoms of sinusitis are runny nose, stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure, excess mucus, sore throat, fever and fatigue. Learn how you can help reduce sinusitis symptoms at home.