Recurrent Sinus Infections
Thomas S. Higgins, Jr., M.D., M.S.P.H.
www.higgins-sinus.com
Offices in Kentucky and Indiana
Sinus InfectionsSinus infection, commonly known as sinusitis, is a cold-like condition in which the sinuses are inflamed or swollen. Four or more sinus infections in a year is typically termed "recurrent sinus infections." The paranasal (“around the nose”) sinuses are the void spaces present in the bones that are located around our nose, in the bones of cheeks, behind the eyebrows and forehead and behind the nose in front of the brain. There are some channels that connect these void spaces to the nose. Due to infections, the sinus lining get swollen and block the intermediate channels. And Sinusitis is the condition in which these channels get blocked.
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Causes of Sinusitis
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There are several causes of sinus infections. The Common Cold virus can cause swelling that contributes to sinusitis. If someone has a Cold for more than seven to ten days, then there is a higher chance that bacterial sinusitis is present. Bacterial infection is a major cause of sinusitis; rarely, fungal infection can also cause sinusitis.
The person’s anatomy can also contribute to the development of sinusitis, including:
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Symptoms of Sinus Infections |
Some common symptoms and signs of sinusitis are:
Symptoms from sinus infections and allergies can be confusing. Allergies of the nose tend to cause “rhinitis” (swelling of the passages of the nose only) and include more sneezing, itchiness, and watery nose/eyes. Asthma is another term that is linked with chronic sinus disease. These two conditions can worsen each other, so it important to maximally treat both. |
Diagnosis of Sinus Infections |
The diagnosis for a sinus infection involves the examination of nose, sinuses and throat. An endoscopy (a tube with a small camera on the end of it is gently inserted into the nose) can helpful to locate the sinus infection and determine if the person has anatomy that worsens their risk for sinus infections. If a sinus infections is severe or lasts for an extended period, a CT scan (picture) of the sinuses may be recommended. These tests will enable the doctor to know the type of infection and which relative medicine should be given to the patient. For example, if the sinusitis is caused by bacteria, antibiotics will be recommended. If nasal polyps are present, your doctor may recommend an anti-inflammatory medicine, such as corticosteroids.
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Sinusitis Treatment |
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To see Dr. Thomas Higgins, a fellowship-trained Rhinologist (Sinus Specialist) in Kentucky and Indiana, click below
or call (502) 894-8441.
or call (502) 894-8441.