Sinusitis

Nasal congestion and irritation may usually heal pretty quickly, but if your symptoms linger or even worsen, you may have sinusitis — a sinus infection. Skilled providers Robert McDermott, MD, Amy Johnson, PA-C, and the team treat sinusitis and other issues with breathing or allergy responses at Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies in Basalt and Glenwood Springs, Colorado. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book online today to get the relief you need.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis happens when your sinuses, which are hollow spaces in your skull, become inflamed or infected. These cavities are located above your eyebrows, behind your cheekbones, near your nasal cavity, and between your eyes.

Normally, they’re filled with air and help with breathing and filtering out particles. But when you have sinusitis, your sinuses are clogged with fluid that can harbor germs, leading to infection. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as a stuffy or runny nose that lasts longer than 7-10 days.

Am I at risk for sinusitis?

Anyone can develop sinusitis, however, you're at a higher risk if you have:

• Nasal polyps
• Frequent colds
• Allergies
• A deviated septum
• A weakened immune system
• Frequent exposure to pollutants and irritants like strong chemicals or smoke
• Asthma

Understanding your risk is key to finding the right treatment. If you get sinus infections more than three times a year, you might have chronic sinusitis.

What are the signs of sinusitis?

Sinusitis symptoms can greatly impact your daily life, and include:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Facial pain
• Fatigue
• Headaches or pressure around your eyes, forehead, or cheeks
• Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of your throat)
• Coughing, especially at night
• Bad breath
• Decreased sense of smell or taste
• Fever
• Feeling of fullness in your ears or ear pain
• Sore throat

Depending on whether your sinusitis is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), the severity and combination of symptoms can vary. Dr. McDermott can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the best treatment for you.

What can I expect from sinusitis care?

Treatment for sinusitis depends on its severity and persistence. Dr. McDermott might recommend common treatments, including:

• Using air purifiers to improve air quality
• Antibiotics (if a bacterial infection is suspected)
• Nasal washes to clear out mucus
• Nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation
• Quitting smoking (if that’s an issue for you)

If these treatments don’t work, a procedure like balloon sinuplasty might be an option to open up blocked sinuses. In some cases, surgery to fix structural problems like a deviated septum may be necessary.

Sinusitis can be really uncomfortable and may keep coming back if you don’t address the underlying causes. If you’re struggling with symptoms, don’t wait. Call Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies today, or schedule an appointment online, so you can get a personalized treatment plan that works for you.