Sinus infections are often accompanied by a host of cold-like symptoms that leave you feeling less than your best and make it difficult to go about your normal daily routine. At Giulio Cavalli Medical in Pittsfield, MA, several sinus infection treatment options are available. Dr. Giulio Cavalli can recommend specific treatments to help you manage your sinus infection and its symptoms.
Sinus Infection Symptoms
Sinus infections are generally caused by a viral or bacterial infection, which causes the lining of the sinuses to become swollen and inflamed. Inflammation and swelling blocks the sinus pathways and makes it difficult for the sinuses to drain, which can lead to a build up of mucus. The inflammation, swelling and mucus build up can all lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Nasal congestion and sinus pressure
- Facial swelling, pain, pressure or tenderness around the eyes, nose and cheeks
- Pressure, pain or swelling around the forehead or back of head
- Decreased sense of smell
- Throat irritation, hoarseness or cough
- Postnasal drip and runny nose
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Fever
Sinus Infection Treatments
There are many effective ways to treat a sinus infection. The appropriate method depends on several factors, such as the type and severity of symptoms. Methods for treating a sinus infection at our Pittsfield, MA, ear, nose and throat office include:
- Antibiotics
- Nasal saline rinse
- Nasal corticosteroid spray
- Oral antihistamine medication
- Decongestant medication
- Oral steroids
Surgery is sometimes recommended for patients dealing with chronic or severe sinus infections. Two surgical procedures commonly used to treat sinus infections include endoscopic sinus surgery and balloon sinuplasty. Both are outpatient procedures that can be performed in the office with patients returning home the same day.
The purpose of balloon sinuplasty is to open up and drain the sinuses. This procedure does not involve any incisions. A balloon catheter is gently inserted into the sinus pathways through the nostrils. The balloon is inflated inside swollen sinus cavities to open them up. While they’re open, the sinuses are flushed with a saline solution to clear out mucus build up. Afterward, the balloon is deflated and removed and the sinuses remain open and clear.
Endoscopic sinus surgery is a procedure for removing obstructions that are blocking the sinuses. Obstructions can include nasal polyps, scar tissue and bone tissue, for example. Blockages are gently removed through the nostrils so the nose is never cut open. Once blockages are removed, the sinus pathways are flushed clean with a saline solution.
We can help you manage your sinus infection by developing an individualized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and needs. For the treatment of a sinus infection in Pittsfield, MA, schedule an appointment with Dr. Cavalli by calling Giulio Cavalli Medical at (413) 443-6116.