Chronic sinusitis is a common disorder that affects millions of people across the globe. Chronic sinusitis is the persistent inflammation of the sinuses and can be quite uncomfortable, and even debilitating. Knowing the causes, associated symptoms, and effective management for chronic sinusitis is essential so that you can properly manage this condition. Here we will walk you through chronic sinusitis and sinus infection treatment, nasal polyps recovery, and when you may want to see an ENT doctor for sinusitis. Read on.
What is Chronic Sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis (also called chronic rhinosinusitis) is defined as inflammation of the sinuses that lasts longer than 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis can have multiple causes, including infection, allergies, and structural issues of nasal passages. Unlike acute sinusitis, which will clear within a matter of weeks, chronic sinusitis is associated with other long-term symptoms and complications.
Causes of Chronic Sinusitis
Various reasons could lead to the development of chronic sinusitis:
- Infections: Multiple past or untreated sinus infections lead to chronic inflammation.
- Allergic Rhinitis: Allergies cause inflammation in the nasal area, thus increasing mucus production which leads to blockages within the sinuses.
- Nasal Polyps: Noncancerous growths found in the nasal passage that can lessen airflow and drainage that might lead to chronic sinusitis. Common nasal polyps symptoms include nasal congestion, loss of smell, and sinus pressure.
- Structural Problems: Deviated septum or other structural problems may interfere with normal drainage of the sinuses.
- Environmental Factors: Pollution, smoke, and other irritants may increase sinus inflammation, which may lead to chronic sinusitis.
Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis symptoms can level in intensity and often include:
- Continuous nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Thick, and/or colored nasal discharge
- Facial pain and pressure
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Coughing, especially at night
- Fatigue
- Ear pain or fullness
These symptoms negatively impact a person’s quality of life in every regard of life including work, school, and socialization.
Diagnosing Chronic Sinusitis
If you are developing a suspicion that you suffer from chronic sinusitis, you should see an ENT doctor who can address sinus diseases. They will perform a thorough evaluation that includes:
- Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, previous sinus infections, etc.
- Physical Examination: Observing potential nasal obstruction and checking your throat and ears.
- Imaging Tests: A CT scan may be necessary to obtain a look at your sinuses and examine if there are blockages or structural issues.
Effective Treatments for Chronic Sinusitis
1. Sinus Infection Treatment
For chronic sinusitis, treatment usually starts with the underlying infection. This could include:
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected.
- Nasal Corticosteroids: To decrease the inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages.
- Saline Nasal Irrigation: By using a saline solution to rinse the mucus and allergens out.
2. Chronic Sinusitis Relief
If your symptoms persist, you may have other treatments available to you:
- Allergy Treatment: Detecting allergies and managing them with medications or avoidance can also help reduce your symptoms.
- Treatment for Nasal Polyps: Running into nasal polyps? Treatment for those could definitely include corticosteroids or other medications geared toward reducing the polyp size.
3. Balloon Sinuplasty
When you are unable to see the results through conservative treatments, then balloon sinuplasty may be a perfect way to go. In this treatment, a small balloon is placed in the sinus cavity and after that it is inflated to enhance the sinus openings. This is done to facilitate the drainage. So, in this minimally invasive process, you experience quick recovery without much of a hassle.
4. Sinus Surgery Recovery
There have been cases where surgery has been the way to go. This is where the options like Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is one the examples that can completely eliminate all obstructions and enhance drainage. But, during the time of recovery, you might feel some discomfort but will certainly help you get rid of the symptoms.
When to Seek Help
If you have had symptoms of chronic sinusitis for over 12 weeks or suffer from recurrent sinus infections, you need to find a sinus doctor (ENT) to treat your sinus symptoms. When you connect with an ENT specialist, it can help you have a treatment plan that can boost your chances of recovery quickly.
Conclusion
Chronic sinusitis can be frustrating and debilitating, but understanding the causes, signs, and symptoms of the condition and treatment options can help patients seek relief, and there are many options for managing chronic sinusitis, either through treating sinus infections, chronic sinusitis relief methods, balloon sinuplasty or other surgical invasive procedures.
If you are suffering from chronic sinusitis, or sinus problems, please contact Deepasri Hospital. The ENT specialists at Deepasri Hospital have experience with sinusitis, and they can provide care for your condition. Request an appointment today with Deepasri Hospital and start your healing process toward better health and comfort!
