Every year, more than 31 million Americans experience a sinus infection. Though common, without intervention and treatment, a sinus infection can affect your ability to exercise or breathe clearly. Richard L. Nass, M.D., F.A.C.S., and his team boast years of experience treating sinus infections. To make an appointment at the practice in Midtown East, Manhattan, or East Hampton, New York, call the nearest office or schedule online today.
A sinus infection causes your sinuses –– a group of hollow cavities that produce mucus and moisturize your airways –– to become irritated and inflamed. Healthy sinuses are filled with air, but if they’re blocked or filled with fluid, bacteria can grow and thrive, resulting in an infection.
Dr. Nass and his team diagnose and treat several types of sinus infections, including:
Acute bacterial sinusitis is the most common type of sinus infection. It’s characterized by a stuffy nose, facial pain, and difficulty breathing that lasts for at least 10 days. Treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis usually involves antibiotics and prescription decongestants.
Chronic sinusitis refers to a sinus infection that lasts for three months or longer.
Subacute sinusitis refers to a sinus infection that lasts between four and 12 weeks.
Recurrent acute sinusitis refers to a sinus infection that occurs more than four times in a single year, with each episode lasting less than two weeks.
Sinus infections affect people of all ages, but several factors may increase your risk, including:
You’re also more likely to experience sinusitis if you smoke.
To diagnose a sinus infection, Dr. Nass reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if any activities like spending time outdoors make them worse.
Next, Dr. Nass conducts a physical exam. During the physical, he looks in your ears, nose, and throat for signs of swelling, drainage, or a blockage. If these measures don’t provide enough information about your condition, he might also order a CT scan or an MRI of your sinuses.
Treatment of a sinus infection depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. Usually, Dr. Nass and his team recommend conservative, integrative measures, including:
In severe cases, Dr. Nass might recommend rinsing your nose with a saline solution or taking Leukotriene antagonists. Leukotriene antagonists help reduce swelling and allergy symptoms.
To explore your treatment options for a sinus infection, make an appointment at the practice of Richard L. Nass, M.D., by calling the nearest office or scheduling online.
