It is chronic sinusitis when it lasts more than 12 consecutive weeks, a time to see one of our board-certified physicians for non-surgical treatment.
Look for these symptoms:
- Chronic sinusitis can cause considerable discomfort with cold-like symptoms that include:
- Nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure & headache
- Difficulty breathing through the nose & snoring
- Swelling around the eyes and cheeks
- A thick yellow or greenish nasal discharge or postnasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Bad breath
- Ear, jaw or teeth pain
- Cough
- Nausea
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Disturbed sleep
Recovery begins with an accurate diagnosis.
Chronic sinusitis can be somewhat difficult to diagnose because there are a number of causes and symptoms that resemble those of the common cold. People often suffer for months before they seek care. Our board-certified physicians have the training, experience and knowledge to accurately diagnose and treat this disease. The following tests are helpful in making the diagnosis:
- Rhinoscopy – A thin, flexible tube with a fiberoptic light is inserted into your nose to visualize & inspect the upper airway, nasal and sinus passages
- Allergy skin tests– If your condition is suspected to be related to allergies
- Nasal & sinus cultures – If your condition fails to respond to treatment
- Eliminating the underlying cause of the problem.
- After identifying the cause of your problem, the following nonsurgical therapies may be recommended:
- Antibiotics to eliminate bacterial infection
- Oral or intranasal anti-inflammatory medications
- Decongestants or antihistamines
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots) if the condition is associated with allergies
- Treatment for immunodeficiency disease
Don’t let chronic sinusitis keep you from enjoying life. Call today for an appointment.
