At Advanced Allergy & Asthma Centers, we provide children and adults with the comprehensive and integrated care required to address allergies, asthma, respiratory issues, and skin problems. We also help patients suffering from sinus infections identify the cause and find a solution to breathe easier and restore wellness.
The sinuses are air-filled pockets located in the forehead, behind the cheekbones, and to the rear of the nose. As they lighten the skull and improve one’s voice, they also produce mucus to moisturize the nasal passages and protect the nose from pollutants, micro-organisms, dust, and dirt. A sinus infection occurs when inflamed sinuses, aka sinusitis, block the normal flow of mucus.
Sinus infections are quite common, affecting close to 31 million people nationwide, and can be categorized as either acute or chronic. They typically develop from colds, seasonal allergies, nasal polyps, narrow sinus openings, or a deviated septum with bacterial, viral, and sometimes fungal origins. For people with allergies, asthma, a weakened immune system, or structural blockages in the nose, the risk of a sinus infection is greater.
The symptoms of a sinus infection may include:
The diagnosis and treatment of sinus infections depend on the symptoms and underlying cause. At Advanced Allergy & Asthma Centers, we tailor care to address individual needs. As part of a comprehensive assessment, we’ll perform a clinical exam and the appropriate diagnostic tests. Successful treatment depends upon an accurate diagnosis. With that in mind, we may recommend doing a skin test, blood test, microbial culture, CT scan, endoscopic nasal evaluation, or biopsy.
At Advanced Allergy & Asthma Centers, our goals are to alleviate discomfort, open up the nasal passages, resolve infection, prevent complications, and avoid recurrence. Medical management differs based on the underlying cause and if an acute or chronic sinus infection is present.
As skilled and experienced providers of care, we’ll prescribe the appropriate nasal decongestants, antihistamines, antibiotics or antifungal agents, saline sinus irrigation, oral steroids, intranasal topical steroids, allergy shots, and other suitable treatments. Some structural defects may require a surgical approach to care.
