What are sinusitis and recurrent infections?
Your sinuses sit behind your cheekbones, nose, and eyes. These cavities are normally empty, lined with soft, pink tissue and a thin layer of mucus. When mucus builds up in the sinus cavities, it increases your risk of infection or sinusitis.
Sinusitis may be acute, lasting for several days, or chronic. Some people suffer recurrent sinusitis and have infections that occur multiple times throughout the year.
Why does sinusitis develop?
Acute sinusitis can occur after a cold or the flu. Chronic and recurrent sinusitis often occurs if you have allergic rhinitis, or allergies, that are not managed.
Some people are more vulnerable to sinusitis due to the structure of their nasal passages and sinuses. They may have:
- Structural differences that narrow drainage ducts
- Blocked drainage ducts
- Immune system deficiencies
- Nasal polyps
An estimated 31 million people in the United States have sinusitis.
When should I suspect I have sinusitis and recurrent infections?
If you have symptoms that last longer than 12 weeks or resolve and then return, you likely have sinusitis and would benefit from a consultation at Advanced Allergy Associates.
Symptoms to look for are:
- A feeling of congestion or fullness/puffiness in your face
- Pus in the nasal cavity
- A nasal obstruction or blockage
- Fever and fatigue
- Runny nose or discolored postnasal drainage
Sinusitis also leads to pain and facial pressure, headaches, and sometimes even tooth pain and bad breath.
What is the immediate goal of treatment for sinusitis and recurrent infections?
The immediate goal of treatment is to relieve pain, pressure, fever, and fatigue associated with sinusitis. Antibiotics, over-the-counter saline nose drops, and warm compresses help with immediate symptoms.
But if you have chronic sinusitis or recurrent infections, these treatments get tiresome, and antibiotics become less effective. The long-term goal of Dr. Williams is to reduce the buildup of mucus in your sinuses, where infection develops.
Chronic and recurrent sinusitis is likely due to allergic rhinitis and requires treatment for this underlying allergic condition. Dr. Williams performs allergy testing to determine the cause of your allergies and help you avoid the trigger. She can also help with medications, like antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids.
If you’re struggling with sinus pain and recurrent infections, call Advanced Allergy Associates for an evaluation and treatment.
