Sinusitis

What is sinusitis?

Your sinuses are the hollow spaces located behind your cheeks, jaw, eyes, and forehead. They play an important role in protecting your health by clearing away bacteria and other particles from the air you breathe.

Sinusitis refers to inflammation in the tissue that lines this space. There are several types of sinusitis, including:

Acute sinusitis

Acute sinusitis refers to inflammation of the sinus cavity that lasts four weeks or less. You may develop acute sinusitis from a cold that turns into a sinus infection. 

Subacute sinusitis

Sinusitis that lasts 4-12 weeks is considered subacute sinusitis. It may be caused by a bacterial infection or allergies. 

Chronic sinusitis

Sinus inflammation that lasts longer than 12 weeks is considered chronic sinusitis. It may develop from a sinus infection, allergies, or structural deformities in your nasal passageway or sinus cavities.

Recurrent sinusitis

This refers to sinusitis that occurs more than once a year. It is often associated with allergies.

What are sinusitis symptoms?

Sinusitis symptoms vary in type and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Facial pain, pressure, congestion, or fullness
• Sinus headache
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Dental pain
• Sore throat from nasal discharge
• Decreased sense of smell or taste

If you experience these symptoms, contact Memorial Village Sinus and Hearing for an evaluation. Though not always a serious health issue, your sinusitis may be a sinus infection that can be serious if left untreated.

You should also seek help from Dr. McCutcheon if your symptoms are severe or last more than 2 weeks.

What can I expect during a sinusitis evaluation?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation from Dr. McCutcheon when you come to the office for a sinusitis evaluation. During your exam, he reviews your symptoms, medical history, and treatments. 

Dr. McCutcheon may perform an in-office sinus-optimized CT scan using the MiniCAT 2020™. This advanced imaging tool provides detailed information about your nasal passages and sinus cavity to help Dr. McCutcheon pinpoint the cause of your sinusitis so he can develop the most effective treatment plan. 

How is sinusitis treated?

Treatment for your sinusitis is individualized based on the type of sinusitis and your symptoms and medical history. Your treatment plan may include:

• Decongestants
• Saline nasal spray
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Nasal and oral steroids
• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines
• Mucolytics
• Balloon Sinuplasty

Dr. McCutcheon works closely with you and adjusts your treatment plan as needed. In some cases, he may recommend surgical intervention to alleviate your sinusitis and improve your quality of life. 

To schedule an evaluation so you can get relief from your sinusitis, call Memorial Village Sinus and Hearing or book online today.