Sinusitis Treatment

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Sinusitis, commonly referred to as a sinus infection, is a prevalent medical condition marked by the inflammation or swelling of the sinus lining. Sinuses, which are air-filled cavities situated between the eyes, nose, and behind the forehead or cheekbones, play a vital role in mucus production, air filtration, and defense against germs, dust, and allergens. Infections can occur when pathogens thrive in the sinus cavities.


Various factors, including the common cold, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, allergies, and exposure to environmental smoke, can contribute to sinusitis. In cases of early-stage sinus infections, treatment typically involves medication and preventive measures. However, chronic sinusitis may necessitate surgical intervention, such as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), which is an advanced minimally invasive procedure designed to address severe sinus infections.

Sinus Types:

Ethmoid Sinus: Situated between the eyes

Frontal Sinus: Located behind the forehead

Maxillary Sinus: Positioned behind the cheekbones

Sphenoid Sinus: Situated beneath the base of the skull


Sinusitis Variations (Sinus Infection):

Acute Sinusitis: Lasting 2 to 4 weeks

Subacute Sinusitis: Persisting 4 to 12 weeks

Chronic Sinusitis: Extending for 12 weeks or more

Recurrent Sinusitis: Occurring multiple times within a year


Common Symptoms of Sinusitis:

  • Intense headache
  • Facial pressure or discomfort
  • Sore throat
  • Nasal congestion
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Diminished sense of smell
  • Swelling around eyes, nose, or cheeks
  • Nasal inflammation


Diagnostic Tests and Treatment:

Diagnostic Tests:

To comprehend your sinus infection, your surgeon will recommend various pre-operative tests, including:

Imaging Tests: Such as CT Scans and X-rays, to identify the root cause of swelling, inflammation, and blockage.

Allergy Test: To ascertain if allergies contribute to nasal blockage.

Nasal Endoscopy: Employing a thin, flexible endoscopic fiber tool to identify potential culprits like nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum, tumors, etc.

Swab Test: Analyzing nasal discharge samples to distinguish bacterial or viral infection.

Sinusitis Treatment - Medication or Self-Care:

Initial sinusitis treatment often involves a combination of medication and self-care:

Antibiotics: Effective for bacterial infections, not viral ones.

Nasal Sprays: Decongestant sprays open blocked sinuses, but overuse can worsen congestion.

Humidifier: Maintains air moisture, alleviating dryness and congestion.

Steam Inhalation: Relieves nasal swelling, pain, and congestion.

Hydration: Drinking fluids thins mucus and eases congestion.

Sinusitis Treatment - Surgical Approach:

For chronic cases unresponsive to medications, surgery becomes an option:

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): A minimally invasive procedure lasting 1 to 3 hours.

Surgical Steps:

Anesthesia: Nasal area is sedated.

Endoscopy: Infected bone, tissue, or polyps are removed.

Burr Usage: In some cases, a rotating burr scrapes tissue.

Nasal Packing: Absorbs blood or discharge.

For comprehensive sinusitis treatment, Pilot Heal  offers FESS performed by skilled ENT specialists. Reach out to us for an appointment and expert care.

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