Sinus Infection Treatment in the Greater New Orleans Area

There may be a treatable, underlying cause of your chronic sinus pain

Understanding a Sinus Infection

Sinus cavities are found around the eyes and nose. They facilitate breathing and talking and are also responsible for controlling your body’s air temperature and humidity. These cavities house mucus that traps germs, including bacteria, dust, and viruses to combat sickness. However, sometimes, the body reacts to these germs, triggering swelling or obstructions that cause sinus infections.

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How Sinus Infections Develop

Sinus infections impact the mucus in the sinuses. The Mucus collects germs and sends them to the back of the throat to be passed into the stomach. A sinus infection interrupts this process, blocking the mucus and trapping contaminants within the sinuses. The sinuses then become infected, calling for treatment to prevent more severe complications.

Sinus Infection Symptoms

Sinus infection symptoms resemble that of a bad cold. The common sinus infection symptoms include:

• Yellow, green, or foggy nasal discharge
• Post-nasal drip
• Teeth pain
• Fever
• Bad breath
• Nasal congestion
• Tenderness or swelling of the face
• Cough and/or throat irritation
• Sinus headaches
• Fatigue

Acute and Chronic Sinus Infections

Sinus infections can be both acute and chronic. Both types involve mirroring symptoms. However, acute sinus infections subside within approximately four weeks, whereas chronic sinus infections are long-lasting or recurring. Furthermore, experiencing three or more sinus infections in one year is classified as a chronic condition.

Balloon Sinuplasty: Lasting relief without invasive surgery

Sinus Infection Causes

Sinus infection causes are numerous, and while they can occur at any time, they are known to strike during the winter months. Most sinus infections are triggered by underlying issues, such as allergies and nasal polyps. Other causes include viruses, bacteria, chemical irritants, mold exposure, nasal structure abnormalities, and, in rare cases, fungi.

Ways to Diagnose a Sinus Infection

To diagnose a sinus infection, we conduct a clinical evaluation. This involves a physical assessment of the throat, nose, and sinuses, discussing your symptoms, and reviewing your medical history. Depending on our visual evaluation, we may recommend imaging studies, such as CT scans or a nasal endoscopy, to examine the sinus cavities for inflammation and infection.

Diagnosing Chronic Sinus Infections

Patients experiencing recurring or relentless sinus infections without relief from traditional medication may require more in-depth diagnostic testing. When we cannot accurately determine the source of the infection using physical assessments or imaging studies, we may recommend allergy testing, a mucus culture, or a biopsy.

Sinus Infection Treatment

Treatment varies depending on the nature of your sinus infection. The purpose of sinus infection treatment is to mitigate nasal inflammation and remove the source of the infection. Our first line of defense typically involves antibiotics and medications to combat infection and alleviate congestion. We may also recommend nasal corticosteroids to reduce swelling or for long-term treatment.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Chronic sinus infections may result from sinus or nasal structure abnormalities, such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or an obstructed nasal passage due to blockages from bone or tissue. In these cases, endoscopic sinus surgery may be necessary. This procedure removes excess tissue or bone to open the sinus passages.

Balloon Sinuplasty

At ENT & Allergy of New Orleans, we strive to avoid invasive surgery. We offer Balloon Sinuplasty, a modern treatment for chronic sinus infections. It is minimally invasive with a prompt recovery time. During the procedure, a tiny balloon opens up blocked sinuses to restore mucus flow, allowing you to achieve relief while avoiding surgery and medication.

How to Manage Sinus Infection Treatments

When you recognize the onset of sinus infection symptoms, it’s important to act fast and address them. We recommend pursuing prescription or over-the-counter medication, including:

• Decongestants to alleviate sinus lining swelling or irritation
• Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Mucolytics to thin nasal discharge
• Nasal spray to irrigate and cleanse the sinuses

Sustaining Healthy Sinuses

To sustain results following sinus infection treatment, it’s imperative to adhere to your treatment plan and take any antibiotics, decongestants, or nasal corticosteroids as prescribed. We recommend prioritizing nasal hygiene using nasal sprays to reduce irritants. It’s important to contact your doctor if you suspect your sinus infection has returned or may be the cause of an underlying condition.

Choose ENT & Allergy of New Orleans

With our renowned sinus specialists and cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, look to ENT & Allergy of New Orleans to eradicate your sinus infection. We provide various time-honored diagnostic services and personalized treatment plans to detect and remedy sinus infections of all types. Count on our expertise to help you achieve lasting relief.

Overcome Your Sinus Infection Today

Don’t let sinus infection symptoms hold you back any longer. Look to ENT & Allergy of New Orleans for compassionate and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment to help you reclaim your comfort. Contact our friendly team today to schedule an appointment with our trusted sinus specialists in Marrero, Chalmette, Harvey, Metairie, and Hammond, LA.

You deserve lasting relief - find it at ENT and Allergy of New Orleans