Chronic Sinusitis And Allergies: What To Know

Do you live with the discomfort and symptoms of chronic sinusitis? By now you probably know you have those annoying seasonal allergies, but they never seem to give you a break. Chronic sinusitis and allergies: what to know.

Know The Causes Of Chronic Sinusitis And Allergies

We develop chronic sinusitis when our immune system fights off allergens. This results in multiple symptoms that last for a long time, usually more than 12 weeks. These allergens can come from airborne tree pollen in the springtime, ragweed in the fall, grasses in summer, and indoor allergens during the winter. These allergies can develop into sinusitis, and hence, we have chronic sinusitis that seems to last all year.

When our sinus cavities become blocked and filled with fluid, we develop an inflammation or infection in our sinus cavities.

In addition, we can develop chronic sinusitis due to an abnormal nose structure like a deviated septum or polyps in the nose.

Know The Symptoms Of Chronic Sinusitis And Allergies

There are some common symptoms to identify chronic sinusitis.

They include the following:

• Tenderness or pressure in the face, around your eyes, nose, and forehead
• Post nasal drip
• A yellow or green thick discharge
• A toothache, ear pain, or headache may accompany sinusitis
• A cough
• Loss of smell
• Bad breath
• Tiredness

These common symptoms last a long time and do not go away.

Know When To Call Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat

When your symptoms are not relieved by over-the-counter medications for allergies or sinusitis, it is time to reach out to your primary care physician or an ear, nose, and throat specialist known as an ENT. Be ready to relate how long you have had symptoms and what medications you have taken.

If you develop a stiff neck, swollen eyes, or a change in vision, call your doctor without delay.

Know The Treatments For Chronic Sinusitis And Allergies

Begin with an over-the-counter antihistamine, try nasal sprays with corticosteroids, and neti pots. Ask Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat about the effectiveness of allergy shots. You may be given an antibiotic if your sinuses are infected.

A new treatment called balloon sinuplasty can be performed in Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat office. It is a minimally invasive procedure that lasts approximately 30 minutes. It requires no recovery or downtime and can quickly relieve your symptoms.

During the procedure, a small balloon inserted into the sinus cavity is partially inflated to expand the sinuses and clear them. It will restore healthy drainage and give you relief.

You don’t have to stay indoors all year, take medications for 12 months, or suffer from the symptoms of sinusitis and allergies any longer.