❓What Is Chronic Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is the swelling, inflammation, or infection of the tissues lining the sinus cavities, which are hollow and air-filled spaces located behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead.

Under normal circumstances, they drain mucus. But if they become inflamed and swollen, these passages become blocked, resulting in mucus buildup. When airflow is restricted, it creates an ideal environment for germs, viruses, and bacteria to thrive and cause infections.

Sinusitis is a common condition, affecting approximately 31 million people in the United States.

There are two major types of sinusitis:

• Acute sinusitis is a short-term infection, usually lasting less than four weeks. A virus is usually the cause, and symptoms can typically resolve on their own.
• Chronic sinusitis is a long-term infection typically caused by bacteria, with symptoms lasting for 12 weeks or longer.

❓The Common Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis

• Persistent nasal congestion
• Runny nose with thick yellow or green mucus discharge
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• Facial pain or pressure, especially around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead
• Headaches
• Ear pain
• Toothache or jaw pain
• Sore throat or cough
• A reduced sense of smell or taste
• Fatigue
• Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

❓What Causes Chronic Sinusitis?

The root cause of chronic sinusitis isn’t always clear and is often difficult to determine. However, several conditions can contribute, including:

• Seasonal allergies
• Asthma, or other related respiratory conditions
• Common cold
• Flu
• Structural issues like nasal polyps or a deviated septum
• A weakened immune system

❓Treatment Options for Chronic Sinusitis in McComb, Summit, & Magnolia, MS

Chronic sinusitis can be frustrating to deal with. Fortunately, several treatment options can help residents of McComb, Summit, Magnolia, and surrounding communities find relief:

💊Medications for symptom relief

• Decongestants
• Antihistamines
• Saline rinses
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays
• Antibiotics

🏠Home remedies for symptom relief

• An indoor humidifier can combat dry indoor air.
• Stay hydrated to thin mucus and support sinus health.
• Inhaling steam can help loosen mucus buildup.
• Avoid common irritants such as smoke or allergens.

🏥Advanced treatment options for symptom relief

• Allergy testing, management, and immunotherapy can address allergies if they are determined to be the underlying cause of persistent sinus issues.
• Balloon sinuplasty is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive procedure designed to help open sinus passages, which may improve breathing in appropriate patients.
• Septoplasty is a procedure that corrects a deviated septum, improving mucus flow and drainage.

❓Should You Seek Professional ENT Help in McComb, MS?

Consider scheduling a visit with your care provider if:

❌Your symptoms are lasting longer than seven to 10 days

❌You experience four or more sinus infections annually

❌Over-the-counter medications and home remedies don’t offer relief

❌You experience a loss of smell, even after other symptoms have resolved

Additionally, seriously consider getting help sooner rather than later for the following benefits:

✅May help slow progression of symptoms, depending on the cause

✅Seeking early care could support earlier symptom improvement

✅Appropriate treatment may lower the likelihood of complications

✅Get customized care plans designed to fit your needs and preferences

Custom ENT Care Plans for McComb and Southwest MS Residents With Southwest Mississippi ENT

It’s easy for chronic sinus issues to start interfering with your life–but don’t let it get to that point. Here at Southwest Mississippi ENT, we offer our team’s experience and expertise to tailor care plans for our patients in McComb and other nearby communities.Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward exploring solutions that may help improve your breathing and sinus health, depending on your condition.