CHRONIC SINUS
There is acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis is a sinus infection that causes inflammation and swelling in your nose for more than 12 weeks (3 months), regardless of treatment.
Sinus infections are quite common and are mainly caused when there is no mucus in the nasal passages. Normal breathing, primarily through the nose, might be difficult or even painful. The area between your eyes and near your nose may feel swollen or under pressure.
What are the Symptoms?
When you experience the following symptoms for over three months, you are suffering from chronic sinusitis:
- Reduced or no sense of taste and smell
- Nasal inflammation
- Postnasal drip (drainage down the back of the throat)
- Congestion or problem breathing through the nose
- Sinus pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead
Other uncommon types of symptoms include fatigue, sore throat, ear pain, and bad breath.
Chronic sinusitis and acute sinusitis have similar symptoms. However, acute sinusitis may last just a few weeks and is usually related to the common cold. Chronic sinusitis will last beyond 12 weeks.
Seeking Treatment
When you have your sinus problem for more than ten days, you should seek medical attention. If it is not responding to treatment, it is also essential to seek medical attention. Chronic sinusitis treatment is vital, especially when you want to help relieve some of the severe symptoms. If you experience severe headaches, fever, swelling around the eyes, stiff neck, or swelling of the forehead, make sure to seek medical attention immediately.
When receiving chronic sinusitis treatment, your doctor should check for any tenderness in your face and nose. Some of the common diagnostic tools for chronic sinusitis include imaging tests, allergy tests, examining samples from your sinus discharge, and looking into your sinuses.
Your doctor may provide you with the following treatments:
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Saline nasal irrigation
- Oral/Injections of corticosteroids
- Aspirin desensitization treatment
- Antibiotics for sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection
Once you realize you are experiencing chronic sinusitis, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. If you are looking for the best sinus doctor, call Sinus Solutions at 702-966-3100.