Sinuses giving you trouble? Here’s how an ENT can help.
Springtime is here. While that means warmer, sunnier weather is ahead, it also means that a lot more people are dealing with sinus and nasal problems. If you’ve been dealing with the symptoms of a sinus infection for weeks now and at-home care isn't providing you with relief, then it may be time to see our Garland, TX, ENT doctor, Dr. James Maddox, for more effective treatment.
What are the signs of chronic sinusitis?
If you are someone who battles with recurring sinus infections, or you deal with symptoms for up to three months or more at a time, then you might very well be dealing with chronic sinusitis. Since chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses, it’s important to spot the symptoms so that you can turn to our Garland, TX, ENT physician for treatment.
The problem is that the symptoms of sinusitis are often similar to a cold or allergies, so you may not think you need to see a doctor when you actually do. If you’ve been suffering from three or more of these symptoms, it’s time to see an otolaryngologist:
- Facial pressure and pain
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Mild-grade fever
- Headache
- Referred pain in the upper teeth
- Coughing
- Post-nasal drip (sore throat in the morning)
- Nasal congestion
- Persistent bad breath
How can a doctor manage my sinus pain?
When you come into the office for evaluation we will go through your medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms. From there, we will perform a quick physical examination where we will check the nasal passages. If we suspect that your sinus pain may be caused by polyps or structural abnormalities (e.g. deviated septum), we may request imaging tests or an endoscopy to diagnose the condition.
The type of sinusitis you’re dealing with will determine the treatment plan and treatments that our Garland, TX, otolaryngologist will recommend. For example, some forms of chronic sinusitis will respond to antibiotics; however, if your sinusitis is due to a viral infection, then antibiotics will not be effective. Prescription nasal corticosteroids may also be provided to manage pain and swelling.
If chronic sinusitis is making it difficult to breathe and isn’t responding to any medication, then your ENT doctor may recommend a minimally invasive procedure known as balloon sinuplasty, an alternative to traditional sinus surgery, in which an endoscope is used to open up the blocked nasal passages and help properly drain the sinuses. This procedure can provide years of relief.
Interested? Give us a call
Providing comprehensive ENT care to people living in and around Garland, TX, Dr. Maddox and his team are here to help you tackle sinus pain, allergies, and other ear, nose and throat problems. To schedule an appointment with us, please call (972) 272-5555.