I have sinusitis -- what are my options?

Sinusitis is due to the obstruction of sinus ostia. An ostium is a small opening that allow the mucous produced within a sinus to drain into the nose. When an ostium or multiple ostia become obstructed, mucous builds up within the sinus. Not only does this cause symptoms of congestion and facial pressure or headaches, but this environment makes the sinus very susceptible to infection. There many factors that may lead to obstruction of the sinus ostia. An abnormality in the nose and sinus anatomy can be the cause. Often, inflammation of the tissues surrounding each sinus ostium is the cause of obstruction. This inflammation may be caused by allergies, bacterial infection, viral infection, fungal infection, immune system disorders, and other rare, inherited disorders.

Sinusitis treatment in Chicago begins with a visit to the doctors at the Advanced Center for Specialty Care. The Otolaryngologists (Physicians who specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of the ears, nose, throat and other head and neck areas) at this practice have specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of patients with sinusitis. They can determine what type of treatment you should receive. While some people may be treated effectively with medications, others may need a sinus surgery procedure.

Allergies are a common cause of nasal inflammation and sinusitis. Dr. Ayesha Sidiqqi is a board certified allergist and immunologist and the section chief of allergy and immunology at Illinois Masonic Medical Center. Dr. Sidiqqi performs allergy testing and provides treatment for patients with allergies.

When infection is the cause of sinusitis, you doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or recommend nasal sprays and irrigations in order to clean the nose and sinuses, creating a healthier environment to prevent infection. When these medications do not resolve the sinusisits, a sinus surgery procedure may be necessary.

People may be born with anatomic abnormalities (such as a deviated nasal septum) or they might arise after a nasal fracture. Because there are no medications to correct anatomic abnormalities, a sinus surgery procedure is likely necessary.

There are many factors to take into consideration when developing a treatment plan. Each person’s medial history, current symptoms, and examination are necessary factors to evaluate before creating a treatment plan. Thousands of people have been successfully treated by Drs. Friedman, Venkatasen, Roberts, and Siddiqi. These doctors can also help you find a sinus solution at the Advanced Center in Chicago.