What Is Sinusitis
Are You Suffering from Symptoms of Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a painful condition that can, in some cases, persist or recur over time. In healthy sinuses, mucus drains and the air is able to circulate, allowing you to breathe comfortably. When the sinuses swell, mucus is blocked from draining, which can lead to bacteria, viruses, and fungus growth, causing pain, pressure, stagnation, and discomfort.
Are You Stuck in the Cycle of Sinus Infection?
Our team of Ear Nose and Throat specialists at Bella Vista ENT believe in an individual approach to treating each patient. Before we can begin your personal treatment plan, we will determine if you are suffering from sinusitis.
Sinusitis Symptoms May Include
- Loss of smell
- Bad breath
- Nasal drip or discharge
- Persistent coughing
- Headache and facial pain
- Lack of energy; tiredness
- Nasal congestion
- A sore throat
There Are Three Types of Sinusitis: Acute, Chronic or Recurrent Acute
Acute sinusitis symptoms persist for 10 to 12 days and resolve in about one month.
Chronic sinusitis sufferers will experience symptoms persisting for longer than 3 months, including green or yellow nasal discharge, fever, irritated or puffy eyes, and a cough that worsens at night.
Four or more episodes or outbreaks of sinusitis in a single year is known as recurrent acute sinusitis. Periods of relief are followed by another outbreak as the cycle continues. While medications and antibiotics may offer short-term relief, some patients continue to experience persistent symptoms — in these cases, exploring other treatment options can be beneficial.
What Is a Sinus Infection?
When left untreated, sinusitis may lead to acute bacterial sinusitis, though this isn’t always the outcome. Seeking timely care can help manage symptoms effectively and reduce the risk of complications. This infection is caused by the trapped mucus and fluids, which allow germs and bacteria to grow. It is a very common infection among people with chronic sinus conditions, allergies, asthma, structural issues with the sinuses, or immune disorders.
While symptoms of a sinus infection can be relieved with home remedies or OTC treatments, some cases do require antibiotics if the infection is caused by bacteria. If your symptoms show no improvement or worsen, you should contact your doctor for proper treatment.
Common Symptoms of Sinus Infection:
- Postnasal drip
- Discolored nasal discharge
- Stuffy nose
- Facial pain or pressure
- Cough
- Sinus headache
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Congestion
Are You Eligible for Sinus Surgery?
For patients with persistent sinus symptoms that don’t improve with appropriate medical therapy, surgery may be considered based on imaging results and underlying anatomical factors. There are a few different surgery options, and we will consult with you to determine the best treatment option. During a typical sinus surgery procedure, you will be placed under a general anesthetic and the doctor will surgically remove blockages, sections of bone, or polyps.
After the procedure, you can expect some nasal and sinus pressure, swelling, or tenderness for the first several days after surgery. It is also common to have some bloody discharge, which typically clears up in a few days. You should avoid straining, intense physical activity, and nasal sprays to prevent any post-operative complications while you heal.
Take Charge of Your Sinusitis Today
Our team at Bella Vista is dedicated to providing personalized care and outstanding services to make your experience as comfortable as possible. We use modern, advanced surgical facilities and techniques to support safe, high‑quality care tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discuss your sinusitis treatment options.