Problems for a Sinus Specialist

The sinuses are hollow cavities within the bones of the skull and face. They are between the eyes, behind the cheekbones, and in the forehead.  When the sinus cavities become inflamed, irritated, or blocked, the result can be a pain, sneezing, coughing, trouble breathing or sleeping, and other issues that impact the quality of life. ENT and Allergy Specialists offer a wide range of treatments for symptom management including Sublingual Immunotherapy and advanced endoscopic surgical procedures including Image-Guided Sinus Surgery and Balloon Sinuplasty.

SINUSITIS

Inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinus cavities can cause the sinuses to become blocked, trapping fluids, germs, bacteria, or fungi and leading to an infection. Symptoms of a sinus infection include headache, postnasal drip, or a discolored nasal discharge, congestion, coughing, fever, and fatigue, with symptoms lasting more than 10 days.  Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your specialist may treat your sinusitis with antibiotics, decongestants, steroids, or nasal irrigation sprays.  For infections caused by nasal blockages including polyps or a deviated septum, surgery may be recommended.

RHINITIS

If you are experiencing sneezing, a runny or itchy nose, postnasal drip, watery eyes, headaches, or facial pain, you could be suffering from rhinitis, an inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane. Allergic Rhinitis is caused by a reaction to allergens including pollens, molds, animal hair, dust mites, foods, insect bites, or medicine.  Non-Allergic Rhinitis can result in the same symptoms but be caused by environmental factors such as cigarette smoke, strong odors, or cold temperatures. If your symptoms persist and avoiding allergens does not provide relief, your specialist may suggest medications and /or irrigation of the nasal passages.  If an obstruction in the sinuses is a contributing factor, surgery may be recommended.

ALLERGIES

An allergic reaction to pollens, food, medications, dust mites, or other triggers can lead to sinus congestion and irritation, which in turn may cause sneezing, coughing, facial pain, and other symptoms. Your specialist will diagnose your allergy sensitivities, recommend avoidance strategies, and offer treatments that may include medications, allergy shots, or sublingual immunotherapy.  Visit our Asthma and Allergy page to learn more about how we can help you.

NASAL POLYPS 

Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths, often in the shape of a teardrop, that hang down from the lining of the nose or sinuses.  While small polyps may not cause symptoms, larger ones can create a blockage, leading to sinus infections, breathing problems, or a reduced sense of smell.  Your specialist may suggest a corticosteroid spray to reduce the size of the polyp.  In some cases, surgical removal of the polyp will be recommended.  This can be done through an outpatient procedure.

DEVIATED SEPTUM 

It’s easy to see that your nasal cavity is divided into two halves.  The thin wall that separates your nasal passages is called the nasal septum.  Normally, the septum runs straight down the middle.  However, the septum is sometimes displaced and positioned closer to one side.  This is called a deviated septum and it can be present at birth or caused by an injury.  A deviated septum can cause a blockage of one nostril, nosebleeds, or frequent sinus infections.  Decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal steroid sprays may be recommended to help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.  If problems persist your specialist may recommend Septoplasty, a surgical procedure that can reset the nasal septum to its optimum position.

SPECIALIZED TREATMENTS 

Sinus disorders can result in sleep problems as well as breathing difficulties that can reduce endurance levels for sports and other activities.  ENT and Allergy Specialists offer treatment specially focused on these areas. To learn more, visit our Sleep Disorders and Sleep Apnea, and our Sports Endurance pages.

ADVANCED ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY 

When surgery is recommended, many procedures can be handled through advanced endoscopic sinus surgery, a technique that enhances accuracy and safety, while enhancing patient recovery.  Visit our Surgery page to learn more about our capabilities.