Chronic Sinus Infections

Americans spend more than $1 billion annually on over-the-counter treatments for chronic sinus infections — many of which fail to work or offer temporary relief. At Michigan Avenue ENT, esteemed double board-certified ENT specialist Julian Dixon, MD, offers long-term relief of chronic sinus infections using the latest state-of-the-art advances. With balloon sinuplasty, Dr. Dixon can open your blocked nasal passages without incisions, and the procedure only takes 45 minutes in their The Loop, Chicago, Illinois, office. Book your consultation online or call the office now.

What is a chronic sinus infection?

A chronic sinus infection is inflammation of the interconnected hollowed-out areas within the skull (the sinuses). Your sinuses are lined with mucus-secreting membranes. Usually, tiny hairs help flush mucus out so you can breathe well.

But colds, allergies, and viruses can cause the sinus passages to swell up, preventing the normal drainage of fluid. This can cause tremendous pressure and pain in your sinuses. 

Many people have structural issues in their sinuses that cause this inflammation, such as natural sinus narrowing, nasal polyps, or deviated septum. 

What do chronic sinus infections feel like?

In a word, chronic sinus infections feel awful. Some of the symptoms you might have are:

• Stuffy nose and breathing problems
• Postnasal drip (mucus draining down your throat)
• Runny nose with thick mucus
• Painful facial pressure in the middle part of the face (nose, eyes, forehead)
• Headache
• Ear pressure and discomfort
• Tooth pain
• Bad breath
• Cough

Symptoms are similar to those of a cold, flu, and other viruses, but they “hang on” for longer. 

When do chronic sinus infections require treatment?

Acute sinus infections hit quickly and last a month or less. They might not require treatment, or you might need one-time treatment. However, some people are susceptible to acute sinus infections because of conditions like deviated septum. 

The acute sinus infections may be so frequent and prolonged that they become chronic. With chronic sinus infections, you have uncomfortable sinus issues virtually all the time for three months or longer. 

It may interrupt your work, prevent you from enjoying your hobbies, or disrupt your time with your friends and family. If you’re at that point, it’s time to contact Michigan Avenue ENT to learn about the advanced solutions for chronic sinus infections. 

What is the best treatment for chronic sinus infections?

Nasal saline rinses, hydration, and over-the-counter decongestants are usually the first-line approach. 

If you have symptoms after that, you may need drug therapies, including antibiotics or intranasal steroid sprays. 

However, a minimally invasive procedure is often the best treatment for chronic sinus infections. Michigan Avenue ENT offers balloon sinuplasty, a 45-minute procedure using state-of-the-art technology to open your sinuses with local anesthesia, no incisions, and no downtime.

If you need effective sinus relief, call Michigan Avenue ENT or book an appointment online now.