Sinus Infections
Symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain and pressure, loss of smell and taste, discolored nasal drainage, postnasal drip, cough, and frequent headaches point towards the possibility of sinus infection or sinusitis. Sinus conditions are frustrating and frequent sinus infections can make it difficult to live an enjoyable or productive life.
TREATMENT FOR SINUS INFECTIONS AND SINUSITIS
Houston Sinus Specialist Dr. Arjuna Kuperan is a Board Certified Otolaryngologist (ENT) and one of few fellowship certified Rhinologists in Texas. He understands how difficult it is to live with sinus issues and he uses his expertise to help patients find relief from chronic sinus infections and sinusitis.
UNDERSTANDING SINUS INFECTIONS
Sinuses are hollow air spaces in the bones between eyes, in the forehead, and behind the cheekbone. They produce mucus to keep the inside of the nose moist and provide a protective barrier against allergens, pollutants, and dust in the air we breathe. Healthy sinuses are typically empty and air can flow freely in and out of them. If the sinuses become blocked or filled with fluid, they are prone to infectious bacteria. Chemical irritants or a bacterial infection can cause severe inflammation, which is what we call sinusitis.
A sinus infection could be the result of a common cold or seasonal allergies. However, if you suffer from recurring sinus infections, an underlying issue could be contributing to your sinus symptoms. Potential causes of sinusitis include nasal polyps, deviated septum, nasal obstruction, and allergic fungal sinusitis.
SINUS INFECTION SYMPTOMS
Symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain and pressure, loss of smell and taste, discolored nasal drainage, postnasal drip, cough, and frequent headaches point towards the possibility of sinus infection or sinusitis. Sinus conditions are frustrating and frequent sinus infections can make it difficult to live an enjoyable or productive life.
TREATING SINUS INFECTIONS
An occasional sinus infection may resolve with over-the-counter treatments. However, if the sinusitis symptoms are present for more than a week or they occur in a recurrent manner, you should consult a Rhinologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
At Houston Advanced Nose and Sinus, Dr. Kuperan does not take a “cookie cutter” approach to sinus treatment because he knows that there is not one single solution that is correct for every patient. He is highly experienced in a full range of sinus treatment options and he will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. He may begin by prescribing strong antibiotic or steroid medications if that approach has not already been done. Dr. Kuperan may use diagnostic tools such as a CT scan or a nasal endoscopy (looking inside the nose with a small camera) in order to detect any underlying sinus issues.
If the chronic sinusitis is resistant to antibiotic treatment, then a procedure may be required to open the infected sinus or sinuses and clear the infection. Dr. Kuperan specializes in minimally invasive and highly advanced sinus procedure options, including balloon sinuplasty or endoscopic sinus surgery. The key is choosing the one most tailored to the severity of your sinus disease.
How Do I Know When to See a Doctor for My Sinus Symptoms?
You should see a Rhinologist if you get sinus infections several times a year or you have sinus infection symptoms that have lasted longer than several weeks.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SINUSITIS
What is the Difference Between Sinusitis and Allergies or a Common Cold?
Seasonal allergies or a bad cold can lead to a sinus infection, which in turn can lead to sinusitis. Sinusitis, which is characterized by inflammation, can be described by how long it lasts:1
How Common is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a very common condition, affecting 28.9 million Americans.2
What Are the Common Symptoms of Sinusitis?
The symptoms of sinusitis are similar to those of a sinus infection, but they typically last longer and may be more severe.
Specialized Care, Superior Results
Choosing Dr. Kuperan means opting for one of Houston’s few Fellowship-Trained Rhinologists. His extensive training and experience in complex sinus and nasal conditions guarantee a level of care and precision unmatched in general ENT practice. Experience the difference that specialized knowledge makes.
Contact the Sinus Experts at Houston Advanced Nose and Sinus
You don’t have to live with never ending sinus symptoms. Dr. Kuperan’s specialized expertise and experience as a Rhinologist will ensure you get the quality treatment you need to find relief and get your life back on track. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
References
1 University of Michigan Medicine. Frequently Asked Questions: Nose and Sinus Disorders. Available: https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/ear-nose-throat/sinus/faq Accessed June 17, 2021
2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Sinusitis. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/sinuses.htm Accessed June 17, 2021.
Dr. Arjuna Kuerpan has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.
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