Chronic Sinusitis: When Is Surgery an Option?

In addition to intense pain in the eyes and frequent headaches, sinusitis can cause stuffiness and breathing problems. When it is chronic, sinusitis can become almost impossible to manage without help from a specialist. Learn when chronic sinusitis may require surgery when you talk to Dr. David Astrachan and Dr. Craig Hecht at Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Connecticut, an ENT office serving patients in Hamden, Madison and Milford, CT.

What Is Chronic Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses and cavities around the nose and above the eyebrows. It is caused by mucus that becomes infected by bacteria in the passageways, usually due to exposure to environmental factors, viruses, colds, or tobacco use. When chronic, the symptoms persist for an extended period, usually months or years. According to statistics published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, chronic sinusitis affects over 12 percent of Americans.

When to Have Surgery for Sinusitis

Patients can often manage sinusitis symptoms with non-invasive solutions like antibiotic medication, decongestants, steroid sprays, or saline washes to clear infected fluid. But when a case of sinusitis is chronic, your Hamden, Madison, and Milford, CT, doctor will likely present you with options for surgical intervention. Some chronic cases are caused by excess tissue and polyps in the nasal passageways or fungus that must be removed with surgery. Thanks to advances in medical technology, many sinus surgeries use a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure.

Sinusitis Surgery Aftercare

If you have sinusitis surgery, your doctor will give you aftercare instructions to help you avoid developing the condition again. Those tips may include:

• No swimming or submerging the face in liquids for at least a few months.
• Avoid polluted areas or exposure to dust or pollen floating in the air.
• Use an air purifier in the rooms where you spend the most time or sleep.
• Limit physical activity for at least a week and get plenty of rest with your head elevated.
• Commit to a smoking cessation program.

Relief from Sinus Discomfort and Headaches

If you have had chronic sinus problems for months or years, it may be time to consider a more targeted solution. Explore the possible advantages of surgery for chronic sinusitis when you visit Dr. David Astrachan or Dr. Craig Hecht at Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists of Connecticut in Hamden, Madison, or Milford, CT. Make an appointment today in: Hamden, CT, by calling (203) 248-8409, Madison, CT, by calling (203) 245-5899, Milford, CT, by calling (203) 876-1159.