Sinusitis – also known as a sinus infection – describes inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. The sinuses are cavities in the head connected by narrow passageways that create mucus that drains out of the nose, keeping it free from bacteria.
When sinusitis persists 12 weeks or longer, it is considered chronic. Chronic sinusitis can cause pain and tenderness in the face, difficulty breathing and impact your overall quality of life. This is why it’s important to seek treatment.
Determine the Underlying Cause
The first step to finding relief from chronic sinusitis is to identify and treat the underlying cause. Oftentimes it is allergies, an infection or an inflammatory disorder. A doctor can diagnose the underlying cause by taking a medical history of your symptoms and conducting an exam.
First-Line Medical Therapies
Below are some of the first-line defenses against chronic sinusitis.
Saline Rinses
Saline rinses are an at-home, low-cost way to treat sinusitis. They work by thinning the mucus so it can drain more easily. You can irrigate the sinuses using a Neti pot or purchase an over-the-counter saline nasal spray from Blount Discount Pharmacy.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are available in intranasal and oral form. Intranasal corticosteroids like Flonase and Nasonex reduce inflammation in the nasal passageways so mucus can drain. Oral corticosteroids work similarly but have a more full-body effect and oftentimes have more side effects.
Decongestants
Decongestants like Afrin and Sudafed unblock the sinuses and reduce nasal congestion. They come in nasal spray or oral medication form. Decongestants should not be used long-term, as they can have a reverse effect.
Antibiotics
If the doctor determines you have a bacterial infection in the sinuses, they may prescribe antibiotics.
Immunotherapy
If allergies are to blame for your chronic sinusitis, you may be referred to an allergist to discuss immunotherapy. Immunotherapy works by introducing small amounts of allergen extracts to decrease your body’s sensitivity to allergens over time.
Surgical Solutions
If you don’t respond well to first-line medical therapies, your doctor may recommend sinus surgery.
Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally-invasive procedure that involves advancing a balloon catheter into the sinuses, inflating it and flushing out the sinuses with saline. The recovery time for this procedure is brief.
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
FESS is another surgical approach wherein a doctor uses an instrument to remove excess tissue, polyps and cysts to widen the sinuses. For more information about the treatment options for chronic sinusitis or to schedule an appointment with a sinus expert, call Foothills ENT and Allergy and Hearing Center today.