Sinus infections are no laughing matter. Known medically as sinusitis, they bring pain and misery to 37 million Americans annually, making them one of the most common chronic health complaints in the U.S.
Causes & Symptoms
They are the result of swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages caused by viral or bacterial infections, nasal passage abnormalities, immune system disorders, exposure to environmental pollutants and other medical disorders.
Symptoms are similar to those experienced with colds and allergies and include nasal congestion, mucus discharge, facial pain and pressure, sore throat, cough, fatigue, bad breath and loss of smell and taste.
Common Treatments
Most cases of sinusitis are acute, meaning they are of short duration (seven to 10 days on average, though symptoms may persist for up to four weeks). You may find relief with over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, nasal corticosteroid sprays and pain relievers.
In addition, home remedies can help relieve discomfort; popular treatments include using a warm and moist washcloth as a compress, deploying a humidifier to moisten the air, drinking plenty of fluids to keep hydrated and sleeping with your head elevated.
Individuals suffering from chronic sinusitis—an infection that persists longer than 12 weeks—usually require a more aggressive treatment approach. Initially, you’ll be given stronger prescription medications, including nasal corticosteroids and antifungal drugs. If allergies are suspected of causing your infection, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended.
Ultimately, for many patients, these remedies do not work; their best long-term solution is sinus surgery.
Surgical Options
The type of surgery you have depends on the severity and persistence of your sinus infections. There are three common procedures:
- Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). The FESS procedure utilizes a nasal endoscope to open the sinus pathways. A thin tube with an attached camera is inserted through the nose, and obstructive tissue is removed. In most cases, the surgery is completed entirely through the nostrils, so no scars are left behind. FESS has been in use since the 1950s and is considered extremely safe. Swelling is limited for most patients, and discomfort is mild.
- Image-guided surgery. This procedure relies on a 3D mapping system created from CT scans and infrared signals to provide information about the position of surgical instruments, allowing the surgeon to accurately guide instruments through complex sinus passages. Image-guided surgery is most often recommended for patients with chronic sinusitis or when previous sinus surgery has changed the anatomy of the sinuses.
- Balloon sinuplasty. In this surgical procedure, a balloon catheter is inserted through the nostrils into the sinus passages, where it is gently inflated, expanding the sinus cavity and allowing fluids to drain. Debris is flushed from the sinuses before the balloon is deflated and removed. This operation is the least invasive, requiring no cutting or removal of bone or tissue. It offers immediate relief and results in a fast recovery. Most patients are able to resume normal activities in a day or two.
Sinusitis is unpleasant, but if you have tried various remedies without success, surgery is likely to bring long-term relief. Speak to Dr. Rosner today to see if you are a candidate for one of these procedures.
Dr. Rosner can help. Call (248) 844-2936 to make an appointment.