Got questions about sinus infections? We have answers.
Are you currently dealing with nasal congestion, facial pain and sinus pressure? If so, then you could be suffering from a sinus infection. While most cases of sinusitis are minor and go away on their own, some people deal with chronic or severe symptoms that can be nagging and even debilitating. Find out more about this respiratory condition and how our Chesterfield, MO, ENT doctor Dr. Paul Burk can help.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is characterized as inflammation in the lining of the sinus cavities. This condition is often caused by either a viral or bacterial infection. Sinus infections typically occur after recovering from an upper respiratory infection like the flu or common cold.
What are the symptoms of this condition?
The most common symptoms of sinusitis include a runny or stuffed nose, facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion and green nasal discharge, as well as headaches and referred pain to the upper teeth and ears.
How long does sinusitis last?
Most acute forms of sinusitis clear up on their own after 4 weeks; however, people dealing with true chronic sinusitis will have symptoms that persist for more than 12 weeks.
What causes chronic sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis is often caused by an allergy or a bacterial infection that causes swelling in the lining of the nose and sinuses.
What are the symptoms of chronic sinusitis?
Besides the symptoms that are indicative of acute sinusitis, you may also experience a loss of smell and bad breath.
What are the treatments for acute and chronic sinusitis?
Even though acute forms will go away on their own with time, you may still want to use over-the-counter pain medications to help reduce headaches, pain, and facial pressure.
Decongestants can also alleviate blocked nasal passages. If your symptoms don’t improve after a week or if they get worse then it’s time to see our Chesterfield, MO, ENT team for treatment. Those with severe or chronic conditions may need antibiotics or a steroid nasal spray. Surgery is also an option for someone who hasn’t found relief from other non-surgical treatment options. We offer balloon sinuplasty to help treat blocked sinuses caused by chronic sinusitis.
If you are dealing with chronic or severe symptoms of sinusitis our Chesterfield, MO, ENT doctor Dr. Burk can help you get the relief you’re looking for. To schedule a consultation with our team, call Ear Nose and Throat Balloon Sinuplasty at (314) 477-4995 today.