At least once a year, around 35 million Americans have sinusitis, also referred to as chronic sinusitis. The ear, nose, and throat specialists at Otolaryngology Associates, LLC have offices all over central Indiana, including clinics in Indianapolis, Greencastle, Greenfield, Kokomo, Noblesville, Carmel, Fishers, Avon, Greenwood, Mooresville and Shelbyville. The experienced team offers individualized care plans that help manage the symptoms of sinusitis. Call the practice today to book your appointment or use the online booking tool.
Sinusitis occurs when the sinus cavities — hollow cavities in the front of your skull that provide moisture to the nasal cavity — fill with fluid. This blockage causes them to become infected and inflamed.
There are four types of sinusitis: acute, subacute, chronic, and recurrent.
Acute sinusitis lasts two to four weeks and gets better with treatment.
Subacute sinusitis lasts between four and eight weeks. Treatment works but takes longer for any noticeable improvement.
Chronic sinusitis is consistently recurring bouts of acute sinusitis, or one long bout, that collectively lasts longer than eight weeks.
Recurrent sinusitis is three or more episodes of acute sinusitis in a year.
The team at Otolaryngology Associates, LLC has trained to diagnose and treat the different types of sinusitis to create the most effective care plan for you.
Children and adults can both develop sinusitis, but the triggers for each differ slightly. For a child, common causes of sinusitis include:
Meanwhile, sinusitis in adults is more likely to be triggered by:
Be aware of anything that may cause a sinusitis flare-up so that you can seek medical treatment at Otolaryngology Associates, LLC sooner rather than later.
Regardless of the type of sinusitis you have, the symptoms are typically the same. The duration, however, is the difference between the two. Symptoms include:
These symptoms are common to many illnesses, so if you experience some or all of them, schedule an appointment at Otolaryngology Associates, LLC to get checked out.
Sinusitis treatment depends on the severity of your illness. For a simple sinus infection, decongestant and saline nasal washes can help. Likewise, inhaling steam or applying warm compresses can also do the job. Your provider may also prescribe a course of antibiotics that you should complete.
In the case of chronic sinusitis, your doctor may recommend endoscopic surgery, like balloon sinuplasty.
Sinusitis is an uncomfortable, painful condition that affects your quality of life. Partner with Otolaryngology Associates, LLC and begin treatment today. Call the practice or book through this website.
