+ 772 888 1880
info@independenceent.com
1400 NW Federal Hwy
Stuart FL 34994
Monday - Friday 8:15am - 4:45pm
Closed on Weekends
Sinusitis
Sinusitis Treatment
Every year thousands of people flock to drug stores, to stand in front of numerous products trying to figure out what sinus medication they should buy. Many people often mistake a sinus problem with a cold or symptoms of allergies. Because these conditions often mimic each other, it is best to visit an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist if you are prone to sinus infections.
Understanding Sinus Cavities
The term “sinuses” actually refers to the sinus cavities, which are the hollow spaces in the bones around the nose. The largest of the four cavities is the maxillary region or maxillary sinus, and it is located in your cheekbones. The maxillary is the largest part of your sinus, spanning approximately one inch in length (across). It is made up of two parts, one on each side of your nose.
The second part of your sinuses is called the frontal sinus. This region is located on your forehead just above the inner corner extending to about the middle your eyebrows. The frontal sinuses also consist of two parts – one above each inner eyebrow.
The third part of your sinuses is called the ethmoid sinus, which is located between your eyes in the area most people call the nasal bridge.
The fourth and last part of the sinuses is called the sphenoid sinus and it is located near the bones of your skull behind your nasal cavity. The sphenoid sinuses are close to the ethmoid sinuses and if you were to look at a picture of your sphenoid sinuses, they would look like part of the ethmoid sinuses. The sphenoid sinuses are the smallest part of your sinuses.
Symptoms Of Sinus Problems
If you have problems with your sinuses, you could have a number of primary symptoms, as well as signs of a secondary infection or health problem. Some of the symptoms and signs of sinusitis include:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Headache
Pressure around your nose - Pain slightly above your eyebrows
- Stuffy nose
- Fever
- Reduced or loss of smell and taste
- Bad breath
- Cough that produces mucus
- Fatigue
Causes And Concerns
Your sinuses are lined with mucosa, which is a soft, pink tissue. When the sinuses are healthy, there is a very thin layer of mucus present. However, conditions like sinusitis can cause a number of disruptions to your nasal cavity, from thick, discolored mucus to thin and constantly running.
A few diseases and conditions that are associated with the sinuses include:
- Sinusitis
- Nasal polyps
- Paranasal sinuses
- Sinus disease
Sinusitis is either acute or chronic. The acute form lasts only a short time and may resolve either spontaneously or with treatment. Chronic sinusitis lasts for more than 12 weeks and is recurring, problematic and distressing. Both forms of sinusitis are caused by three different pathogens: bacteria, fungi and viruses. To diagnose sinusitis, the sinus specialist will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. They may need to take an image of your sinuses to diagnose any problems.
Solutions And Options
Treatment for viral sinusitis is different from the treatment of the bacterial form. The sinusitis caused by viruses usually runs its course within 10 to 14 days. Many people find relief with over the counter sinus medications, such as decongestants, saline nasal spray and pain relievers. We advise that you drink lots of fluids (preferably water) and use saltwater nasal drops. Also, you can apply a warm, damp cloth to reduce pain and swelling. Some people use steam from the shower or other moisturizing sources to help loosen the mucus.
For bacterial sinusitis, we recommend that you be evaluated for treatment. Your antibiotic therapy will depend on your age, your unique condition, the extent of your infection and your health condition. Also, this form of sinusitis responds to the same at home treatment measures as the viral form. However, fungi sinusitis is a rare condition that is treated differently from the other two forms of sinusitis. Many times, patients with fungal sinusitis require steroid therapy or even surgery.
Many people suffer from recurring, chronic sinusitis due to allergies. If your sinus specialist feels that your chronic sinusitis is caused from allergies, then prescription medication or allergy shots could help. If you have returning episodes of sinusitis symptoms, you could have chronic sinusitis. It is important that you come in for an evaluation, as this type of the disease requires specialized treatment.
Nearly everyone experiences problems with the sinuses at some point in their lives. Viral and bacterial sinus infections are quite common. If you suspect you have sinusitis, the sooner you get to a sinus specialist, the better. Sinusitis can be painful, annoying and problematic. No one likes the feeling of not being able to breathe from a stuffed-up nose. Now that you understand the condition of sinusitis and the associated symptoms of sinus, call to make an appointment so you can get proper treatment and start feeling better.
Request an Appointment
Please complete the form below and a member of our staff will contact you within 24 hours.
We specialize in hearing aids
Independence ENT offers a wide range of hearing aid products and accessories provided by leading manufacturers. Learn more
