Sinus Specialist

What problems affect my sinuses?

Your sinuses are four air-filled pockets in your upper nasal cavity that are responsible for moisturizing the inside of your nose. The sinuses also help trap environmental pollutants, such as dirt and debris, to protect your health.

There are several medical conditions that directly affect your sinuses and produce a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. These conditions include:

• Allergic sinusitis
• Chronic sinusitis
• Sinus headaches
• Viral and bacterial infections

You can also have difficulties with your sinuses and breathing ability if you have an obstruction in your sinus cavity, such as polyps.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is a condition where your sinuses become inflamed and make you feel like you have a persistently congested nose. In acute sinusitis, you have sinus problems that last for less than a month. With chronic sinusitis, your symptoms can last 12 weeks or longer.

Symptoms of sinusitis are similar to a cold that never seems to go away. You may also feel pressure or a fullness in your face and around your eyes that can become uncomfortable or even painful. In some cases, your sinuses may produce a thick mucus that drains out of your nose and changes how things smell or taste.

What causes sinus infections?

When your sinuses become infected by a virus or bacteria, you can experience symptoms similar to sinusitis, such as pain.

Sinus infections can also produce a thick mucus that appears yellow or green in color and drains out of your nose or into the back of your throat. This drainage can make it difficult to sleep because of chronic coughing. You may also experience a sore throat and hoarseness.

What treatments are available for sinus problems?

If you have a sinus infection due to a virus, you generally need to get plenty of rest and allow symptoms to resolve on their own. If the infection is bacterial, your Abilene Family Medical Associates provider may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection.

For chronic or allergic sinusitis, your provider may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to prevent sinus inflammation triggered by allergens or other environmental conditions. Over-the-counter treatments can include:

• Decongestants
• Antihistamines
• Saline nasal spray

In some cases, such as polyps or other nasal obstructions, you may need surgery to reconstruct your sinus passages and improve your breathing. Your provider can provide you with a referral to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation and treatment if needed.

If you have a sinus infection or other condition, call Abilene Family Medical Associates or schedule a consultation using online booking today.