Woman experiencing sinus pain

Learn about treatment options for sinus inflammation and infections

Inflammation or swelling in the sinus cavities hints at infection risks. These air-filled spaces are located around the eyes and nose. Acute infections can heal in 10 days, while chronic conditions linger for over 12 weeks. The sinuses make mucus that passes through the nasal openings to be swallowed eventually. However, a bacterial attack can disrupt this function by blocking the drainage path. Common colds and allergies can also block the sinuses by inflaming the soft tissues at the lining of the nose and the sinus openings. In some cases, structural deformities like deviated or crooked septum can cause infection by interrupting the mucus drainage. Soft tissue growth, such as nasal polyps, also interferes with the sinus’s functioning.

Medication Vs. Sinus Surgery

Doctors can recommend different treatments for different sinusitis conditions based on diagnosis, involving nasal endoscopy, allergy test, CT scan, and more. Check https://drkhliment.com.sg/sinus-specialist-singapore-sinusitis-surgery-treatment/ for detailed knowledge. Some can be prescribed medications, while others may also need surgery to alleviate their symptoms. Both these methods contribute significantly to a patient's recovery depending on the severity of the medical condition, age, lifestyle, etc. Still, let’s analyse how medications and surgeries help.

Medications for sinusitis

A sinus expert can recommend antibiotics for any active bacterial infection, whether acute or chronic. The course of medicine may vary. However, viral infections will be treated differently. If someone experiences terrible headaches, they can take painkillers as advised by the specialists. Some patients with congested noses or nasal polyps may need steroid doses to recover from recurring sinusitis or mucosal thickening. For inflammation and swelling, nasal sprays can be given. These also soothe runny nose, sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms. Antihistamines can be prescribed if allergies like dust mites or pollens are the source of your trouble. These medications can cause minor side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth. Then, decongestants can be prescribed to ease stuffy nose and pain. 

Surgeries for sinusitis

Endoscopic sinus surgery and balloon sinuplasty are standard surgical procedures, with the latter being relatively new. In balloon sinuplasty, doctors administer local anaesthesia and insert a tiny balloon into the nostrils through a catheter. The balloon is inflated inside the nose to clear blockage and then deflated to remove it. A patient may need more sessions of this depending on the condition of their nose linings. However, endoscopic surgery may benefit someone with nasal polyps too. Patients have to take it under general anaesthesia. The doctor can use this minimally invasive procedure to widen the sinus walls or remove the excess tissue growth. Depending on the complexities, this surgery can last for one to four hours.

One must know that acute sinus infections can heal from medications. Chronic conditions often demand surgery. Most people are advised to have endoscopic sinus surgery to enlarge the sinus cavities and clear the passage for mucus drainage. The same method can also help with septal deformities and nasal polyps. Nowadays, many patients are recommended balloon sinuplasty as well. Only your sinus specialist can suggest the best treatment for your medical condition and health. So, rely on their diagnosis and expertise. During initial consultations, they will ask about your symptoms, family medical history, lifestyle, etc. Share the correct details so they can use these details to formulate a better recovery plan for you.

Additional Information

Understanding Sinusitis

Sinusitis refers to inflammation or swelling in the sinus cavities, which are air-filled spaces located around the eyes and nose. Acute sinus infections typically resolve within 10 days, while chronic sinusitis persists for over 12 weeks. The sinuses produce mucus that drains through the nasal openings, but infections, allergies, or structural deformities like deviated septum or nasal polyps can block this drainage pathway, leading to symptoms such as congestion, facial pain, and headache.

Treatment Options

Treatment for sinusitis varies depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. While some patients may find relief with medications alone, others may require surgical intervention to alleviate their symptoms.

Choosing the Right Treatment

The choice between medication and surgery depends on various factors, including the severity of the sinusitis, the presence of nasal polyps or structural abnormalities, and the patient's overall health and preferences. While acute sinus infections may respond well to medications, chronic or recurrent sinusitis often requires surgical intervention to address underlying issues and improve symptoms. Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with a sinus specialist, who will consider the individual's medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between medication and sinus surgery is essential for effectively managing sinusitis. While medications can provide temporary relief from symptoms, surgery may be necessary for long-term management, especially in cases of chronic or recurrent sinusitis. By working closely with a sinus specialist and discussing treatment options, patients can make informed decisions to improve their quality of life and alleviate sinus-related symptoms.