How is chronic sinusitis treated?

Chronic sinusitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for at least 12 weeks, despite attempts at treatment. Treatment for chronic sinusitis can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying causes. Here are some common approaches to managing chronic sinusitis:

Medical Management:

Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed. However, chronic sinusitis is often not solely caused by bacterial infections, so antibiotics may not always be effective.

Corticosteroids: Nasal or oral corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the sinuses and relieve symptoms. They can be prescribed for short-term use to control flare-ups.

Nasal Decongestants: Over-the-counter or prescription nasal decongestants may be used for short-term relief of nasal congestion. Prolonged use can lead to a rebound effect and worsen symptoms, so they should be used with caution.

Saline Nasal Irrigation: Rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution can help clear mucus and reduce inflammation.

Allergy Management:

If allergies are contributing to chronic sinusitis, allergen avoidance measures and allergy medications (antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroid nasal sprays, or allergy shots) may be recommended.

Surgery:

In cases where medical management fails to provide relief or if there are structural issues in the sinuses, surgical intervention may be necessary. Common surgical procedures include:

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: This minimally invasive procedure involves the removal of nasal polyps, the widening of sinus openings, and the correction of structural abnormalities.

Balloon Sinuplasty: This procedure uses a small balloon to open blocked sinus passages, providing relief from chronic sinusitis symptoms.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): FESS is a more extensive procedure that can correct anatomical issues contributing to chronic sinusitis.

Immunotherapy: In some cases, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended to help desensitize the immune system to specific allergens that could be exacerbating chronic sinusitis.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Humidification: Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can help keep nasal passages from drying out.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help thin mucus and make it easier to drain.

Avoid Irritants: Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke and other environmental irritants can help manage symptoms.

It's essential to work closely with a healthcare provider, usually an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT), to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific case of chronic sinusitis. Treatment may involve a combination of these approaches to provide effective symptom relief and improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic sinusitis.

What happens during endoscopic sinus surgery?

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), also known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis and other sinus-related conditions. Here's a step-by-step overview of what happens during endoscopic sinus surgery:

Preparation:

Before the surgery, you will typically have a consultation with your ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. This consultation helps the surgeon assess your specific condition, review your medical history, and discuss the procedure, potential risks, and benefits.

You may be asked to stop taking certain medications like blood thinners before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Anesthesia:

Endoscopic sinus surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be completely asleep and pain-free during the procedure. Local anesthesia with sedation may be used in some cases.

Access and Visualization:

The surgeon starts by inserting a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) into one of your nostrils. The endoscope provides a magnified, detailed view of the inside of your nasal passages and sinuses.

The surgeon may use a surgical navigation system to enhance precision and accuracy during the procedure.

Assessment and Treatment:

Using the endoscope, the surgeon carefully assesses the condition of your nasal passages and sinuses. They look for signs of inflammation, nasal polyps, structural abnormalities, and blockages.

Depending on the findings, the surgeon may perform various surgical procedures to address the specific issues contributing to your sinusitis. These procedures can include:

Polyp Removal: If nasal polyps are present, the surgeon may remove them.

Sinus Opening Widening: The surgeon may use specialized instruments to enlarge the natural openings of the sinuses, improving drainage and airflow.

Septoplasty: If a deviated septum is contributing to sinus problems, it may be straightened or reshaped during the surgery.

Turbinate Reduction: Enlarged turbinates (structures inside the nose) that obstruct airflow may be reduced in size.

Cyst or Tumor Removal: If there are cysts or benign tumors in the sinuses, they may be excised.

Nasal Packing and Stents:

In some cases, the surgeon may place dissolvable nasal packing or stents to support healing and maintain sinus openings during the initial recovery phase.

Closure:

Once the necessary procedures are complete, the surgeon removes the endoscope, and any incisions made inside the nostrils are typically not visible externally.

Recovery and Postoperative Care:

You will be monitored in the recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off. Depending on the extent of the surgery and your overall health, you may be discharged on the same day or required to stay overnight in the hospital.

You will receive detailed instructions on postoperative care, which may include nasal hygiene practices, pain management, and follow-up appointments with your ENT specialist.If you are suffering from the unpleasant symptoms of sinusitis and need treatment quickly, then come to UrgentWay in New York to see our sinus infection doctor for sinus infection treatment at urgentway walk in medical center.