Sinusitis occurs when the linings of the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, causing blockages. This condition impacts 31 million adults in the U.S. and can be difficult to treat due to its persistent nature, even with medication, and various underlying causes. At Jacksonville Breathe Free, our dedicated team is here to help you restore your health and enhance your quality of life.
WHAT Causes Sinusitis?
There are several potential factors that can contribute to chronic sinusitis. These include:
- Bacteria
- Infections
- Allergies
- Nasal lining inflammation
WHAT are Symptoms of Sinusitis?
Sinusitis manifests with a range of symptoms that vary from person to person, making it essential to consult an ENT specialist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Common signs of sinusitis include:
- Facial pain or pressure around the eyes, nose, jaw, and teeth
- Disrupted sleep due to nighttime congestion and sinus pain, leading to daytime fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Persistent nasal congestion from swollen nasal passages
- Blocked nasal airways
- Reduced sense of smell and taste
- Headaches
- Postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of the throat)
- Green, yellow, or cloudy nasal discharge
WHAT are the Different Types of Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is categorized into three main types: acute, chronic, and recurrent. While they share similar symptoms, these types differ in their duration and frequency of occurrence.
- Acute Sinusitis: Acute sinusitis typically lasts up to four weeks and is characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms. It often develops as a result of a cold or upper respiratory infection, causing inflammation and blockage of the sinus passages.
- Subacute Sinusitis: Subacute sinusitis lasts between four to twelve weeks, followed by symptom improvement, and presents prolonged inflammation and congestion of the sinus passages.
- Chronic Sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis lasts for 12 weeks or longer and is characterized by persistent inflammation of the sinus passages. This condition often results in ongoing symptoms, despite medication, that can significantly impact the quality of life.
- Recurrent Sinusitis: Recurrent sinusitis is characterized by experiencing four or more infections in a year, with periods of relief between episodes, yet the condition tends to persist despite the temporary reprieve.
What Are the Treatment Options for Sinusitis?
Sinusitis can significantly impact your quality of life, but there are various treatment options available to provide relief. From medications to surgical procedures, our expert physician will help you choose the most effective approach for your specific needs.
- Medication: Depending on your symptoms, severity, and how long they’ve persisted, our doctor may suggest a range of treatments. These could include over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, or even home remedies tailored to your condition.
- Balloon Sinuplasty: Balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon sinus dilation, is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure designed to improve sinus drainage by gently expanding your natural nasal passages with a small balloon, providing lasting relief from sinus symptoms.
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): In certain cases, our physician may recommend sinus surgery to address chronic issues. Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a procedure aimed at improving sinus drainage and function by reshaping the natural structure of your nasal passages. By enlarging the sinus openings, FESS promotes better mucus flow and reduces congestion. To further enhance the results, balloon sinuplasty can be combined with FESS, offering additional relief from symptoms.
Let Jacksonville Breathe Free Help!
Our dedicated professionals are ready to identify sinusitis and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. We take the time to understand your concerns, conduct thorough assessments, and deliver solutions specifically designed for you. Don’t let discomfort hold you back—schedule a consultation today at Jacksonville Breathe Free and start experiencing relief from your symptoms.
