Do you need a ENT doctor for sinusitis? Sinusitis is a very common condition. There are spaces or tissue linings inside your nose and head that have hollow air spaces. These linings are called ‘Sinuses’. They produce mucus, which is a fluid that filters out bacteria that tends to enter your system as you breathe. In some conditions, these spaces swell up, and this inflammation makes it difficult for the mucus fluid to pass through.
Signs & Symptoms
Sinusitis is not a contagious condition. Signs and symptoms of sinusitis are easy to identify. Firstly, someone who may have sinusitis would have continuous cold. Blocked nose and throat and congestion are the most common symptoms. Due to this blockage, your sense of smell and taste would also reduce.
Your head may feel heavy and ache a lot which will also cause your eyes to get puffy and your face swollen. In addition to cold you may also suffer from fever and fatigue. This would result in overall weakness and not wanting to do anything.
Types of Sinusitis
Acute Sinusitis this type is the most common. It starts off with either a runny or a stuffy nose. Nasal congestion is normal. It lasts for 4 weeks. While, Sub-acute Sinusitis lasts for 4 to 12 weeks. Chronic Sinusitis lasts for 12 weeks or more. It may continue for months of years after that. Recurrent Sinusitis tends to occur several times within a year.
Treatment
Patients find relief in decongestants. They help with congestions. Decongestants help in the shrinking of swollen tissues and blood vessels. They are available at drug stores in the form of pills, nose drops and nasal sprays. Afrin or Vicks Sinex are two decongestants that doctors prescribe.
However, it is important to note that if you suffer from diabetes, thyroid problems or uncontrollably high blood pressure conditions, then you should consult your doctor before taking a decongestant. This is because frequent decongestant use is not safe. Your doctor can tell you when and how frequently you should use the decongestant to avoid any other medical conditions and complications.
In addition to the nasal spray, your doctor may prescribe anti biotic pills to get rid of the allergies that come with sinusitis.
Doctors also recommend patients to try home remedies. Steam inhalation tends to work best. It opens blocked pathways and allows mucus to pass through. You can add a few drops of essential oils in the water to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. Also, you must try to keep your surroundings clean and free of bacteria. You should also use humidifiers in homes to get rid of germ particles. It is vital to take good amount of sleep at night and stay hydrated. Usually, your doctor will tell you which treatment will be best based on your particular condition.
Bottom-Line
To conclude, sinusitis may not always be easy to treat. Chronic conditions require proper medical attention. Home remedies provide relief only temporarily. Are you someone who has identified the above mentioned symptoms in yourself? Have you have tried every remedy that exists and you still haven’t found relief? If yes, then you should definitely consult a specialist. Don’t worry, just get yourself checked. Schedule your appointment with us, one of the best Ear, Nose, and Throat specialists in NYC. We will help you with your situation as quickly as possible.
