Do You Have a Sinus Infection? Sinus Infection Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Sinusitis is one of the most common conditions in the U.S. affecting about 30 million people each year. Acute sinus infections are a common issue, especially during cold and flu season, which can usually be treated conservatively with antibiotics and sinus rinses. Chronic sinusitis is more of a protracted inflammatory condition caused by blockage of the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses, which may sometimes need a more aggressive intervention. 

What is a Sinus? How does one develop Sinusitis?

Sinuses are air-filled spaces in our face where natural amounts of mucus are produced and oxygen is exchanged - just like in the lungs. Little microscopic hairs in the sinus wall move the mucus out of the sinus allowing it to drain into the nose. When occurring naturally this process is imperceptible however when mucus builds up in these spaces due to poor drainage, bacteria can grow, causing a sinus infection. 

Common symptoms of a sinus infection are nasal congestion, nasal discharge, facial pain or pressure in your sinus area, as well as post-nasal drip and a cough. 

What’s the difference between chronic and acute sinusitis? 

The main difference between acute and chronic sinusitis is the length of time you experience symptoms. 

Chronic sinusitis is a condition where you experience some combination of symptoms including nasal congestion, frequent nasal discharge, facial pain and/or pressure and a reduction in your sense of smell for 3 months or more. People who develop chronic sinusitis usually have some anatomic issue that leads to the development of this condition.

Acute sinusitis usually lasts for a few days or weeks, then goes away with adequate treatment.

Do I need to see a doctor for sinusitis? 

While some sinus infections can be managed at home with decongestants and saline rinses, visiting an ENT doctor can properly diagnose your sinus infection. If you get frequent sinus infections or have sinus symptoms that usually last for a long time, we can screen you for chronic sinusitis with a comprehensive exam and even perform a CT scan on the spot. 

For acute sinusitis, we may prescribe antibiotics and/or steroids and recommend use of a sinus rinse and other over-the-counter remedies like, nasal/oral decongestants and humidifiers. 

For chronic sinusitis, we may recommend chronic medical therapy or sometimes an in-office procedure like Balloon Sinuplasty to help ease your long-term symptoms. Some patients will need a more aggressive sinus surgery to effectively manage their symptoms. 

What is Balloon Sinuplasty? 

Dr. Pantelides is one of New York’s leading Balloon Sinuplasty experts. The procedure employs a specialized instrument that has a rigid balloon at the end of it, that when placed within the sinus drainage pathway is inflated to dilate the space, then deflated and removed. The procedure itself usually takes approximately 20 minutes with an additional 30 minutes for adequate administration of topical anesthetics. The recovery for this procedure is usually about 48 hours for most patients before they can return to their normal daily activities.

How can I prevent a sinus infection? 

Prevention is the best medicine. Wash your hands regularly, and minimize contact with people who may have a cold. Managing your allergies with an ENT doctor is another way to help avoid future sinus infections. Cigarette smoke whether directly from smoking or second-hand can also be a major player in developing sinusitis, so avoid at all costs. Good nasal hygiene can also go a long way. While it probably takes some getting used to, consistent nasal saline rinses can help clear the nose of irritants and allergens and allow good drainage of the sinus and nasal cavities.

If you’re struggling with sinuses, seeing an ENT doctor is the best way to diagnose and treat the issue. You can make an appointment with Dr. Harry Pantelides at our Astoria, Queens or Williamsburg, Brooklyn location here.