A sinus infection can make you feel miserable. Fortunately, most infections clear up when your cold goes away. However, chronic sinusitis is different. It can last for months and not clear up even when you take treatments for it. A sinus doctor can help you get a chronic sinus problem under control by uncovering the cause and treating it to eliminate your condition. Here are symptoms of chronic sinusitis and treatments your doctor might recommend.
Symptoms You Might Have With Chronic Sinusitis
You may not have a fever with chronic sinusitis the way you would with an acute sinus infection, but many of the other symptoms are similar. You may have a stuffy nose, runny nose, tenderness around your sinuses, loss of smell, sore throat, fatigue, earache, or headache. If the symptoms don't clear up in several days, it's a good idea to see a sinus doctor for treatment, especially if you're having a lot of pain.
Tests That Help Diagnose A Sinus Problem
Your doctor might want you to have an MRI imaging test. This creates pictures of your sinuses that can show things like tumors, polyps, and inflammation. The doctor can also take samples of secretions in your nose to test for a bacterial or fungal infection. Allergy tests might also be done to make sure your sinus condition isn't a result of allergen exposure. Once your doctor studies the results of your tests and your symptoms, they can decide on a treatment plan to try.
Treatments For Chronic Sinusitis
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation. They help relieve a stuffy and inflamed nose so you can breathe a little easier. You might take the drug in the form of nasal spray, pills, or injections. In addition, if the sinus doctor discovers you have allergies, they may add allergy medications to your treatment plan.
If your sinusitis is caused by a fungus, you may be started on antifungal medications. If a swab test reveals a bacterial infection, you may need to take a round of antibiotics. If these treatments don't help, your sinus doctor might decide to do endoscopic surgery.
This surgery is done with an endoscope, which is a flexible tube with a light on it that allows the doctor to see inside your nose. If the doctor finds an obstruction, such as a polyp, they can cut it out without having to open up your nose with an incision.
In addition, your doctor may talk to you about home care. You might need to use a humidifier to keep the air in your home from being so dry and affecting your sinuses. You may also be advised to stop smoking and to stay away from others who smoke so your sinuses won't be irritated.
