The discomfort can be relentless: headaches, congestion, difficulty breathing, facial tenderness and pressure. If you are one of the millions of Americans who has experienced these agonizing symptoms, you may be suffering from sinusitis.
Usually caused by an infection, sinusitis is an inflammation of the tissue that lines the nasal passages. Other causes include nasal polyps (growths) and a deviated septum (the displacement of the nasal wall). Those with allergic rhinitis or hay fever have an increased risk of developing sinusitis.
There are different types of sinusitis, characterized by the length of time that the symptoms are present.
Acute sinusitis. Inflammation and discomfort generally last for 4 weeks or less.
Subacute sinusitis. Symptoms are present for 4 to 8 weeks.
Chronic sinusitis. Symptoms persists for longer than 3 months.
Other symptoms can include: bad breath, sore throat, postnasal drip, loss of smell, dental pain, and general fatigue.
Finding Relief
Sinusitis can be treated both non-surgically and surgically. The course of action depends on the diagnosis and severity of the condition, that is whether it is acute or chronic. Before recommending a treatment plan, Dr. Furze will evaluate your sinuses and review your medical history, particularly as it relates to allergies and other risk factors.
Medicine and other remedies. Decongestants, nasal drops, nasal sprays and steam inhalation may alleviate symptoms. In the case of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to ward off bacterial growth. If symptoms are unresponsive to medication or return periodically, more involved treatment may be recommended.
Balloon sinuplasty. A non-surgical treatment option, balloon sinuplasty is an effective approach that gently unblocks the nasal passages with a balloon. The procedure involves a the insertion of a small thin tube into the nostril. The tube has a small balloon attached to the end after it is placed in the nostril, the balloon is inflated to open the airways. When removed, the patient feels immediate relief. The procedure causes little discomfort and requires minimal downtime.
Surgery. In the case of chronic sinusitis, it may be necessary to remove tissue. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a special instrument and guided imagery. The procedure is performed to remove bone tissue or growths (polyps). If sinusitis is related to a deviated septum, septoplasty a nose surgery that corrects a deviated septum can address the problem and help prevent repeated attacks. Surgical procedures involve a more extensive recovery period than balloon sinuplasty.
If a patient has a history of a health condition that contributes to or triggers an episode of sinusitis, the treatment of the associated factor will be considered in the overall plan. For example, allergies may need to be controlled and addressed.
Your Sinusitis Consultation with Dr. Furze, Orange County, CA
A specialist in treating sinusitis, board-certified Dr. Furze has helped numerous patients in Orange County find sinus relief. If you are experiencing the uncomfortable symptoms of sinusitis, Dr. Furze can recommend a treatment plan that is appropriate for you. His expert and compassionate approach will have you breathing easier once again. Contact his office today at (800) 498-3223 for a consultation.
