Understanding Sinusitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Types

Sinusitis is due to an infection in the sinus passages that causes inflammation and swelling. Nasal congestion, facial pressure, and a sore throat are all symptoms of sinusitis. The condition sometimes goes away on its own, but it is best to seek treatment if symptoms persist for longer than a week or if you experience chronic sinusitis. The experienced ENT physicians at Ear Nose and Throat Consultants in Detroit, Southfield, Novi, Livonia, and St. Clair Shores, MI, treat sinusitis.

Causes of Sinusitis

Several different factors can cause sinusitis to develop, including other conditions. Some known causes of sinus infections include colds, allergies, and environmental pollutants that irritate the sinuses. Additionally, the risk of developing sinusitis is higher for individuals with a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or other abnormalities in the nasal passages that make it difficult for them to drain. In some cases, certain medical conditions or an immune system disorder can also contribute to chronic sinusitis.

Symptoms of Sinusitis

Sinusitis can lead to a host of unwanted symptoms. Many of these symptoms develop as a result of inflammation of the sinus passages, which makes it difficult for them to properly drain. Symptoms of sinusitis can include:

• Stuffy nose
• Pain or pressure in the face
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Drainage down the back of the throat
• Pain or pressure in the ears
• Altered sense of smell
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Fever

Types of Sinusitis

There are four distinct types of sinusitis. These are:

• Acute Sinusitis — A sinus infection in which symptoms are typically resolved within four weeks with proper treatment and care.
• Subacute Sinusitis — A sinus infection that does not initially respond well to treatment so symptoms typically last for 4-8 weeks before getting better.
• Chronic Sinusitis — Chronic sinusitis occurs when symptoms persist for eight weeks or more, either due to a recurrence of the infection or not properly treating it right away.
• Recurrent Sinusitis — Three or more sinus infections in one year are categorized as recurrent sinusitis.

Treatments for Sinusitis

It is best to see a doctor for treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of sinusitis. Without proper treatment, the infection could become chronic or recurrent. The skilled ENT physicians at our practices in Detroit, Southfield, Novi, Livonia, and St. Clair Shores, MI, treat all types of sinusitis and will develop a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and needs. Some methods for treating sinusitis include:

• Antibiotics
• Saline nasal spray
• Decongestant medicine
• Pain relief medications
• Nasal corticosteroids
• Allergy medications
• Sinus surgery

If you regularly develop sinus infections, we can help. Schedule an appointment with one of our ENT providers to learn more about the different options for treating sinusitis by calling Ear Nose and Throat Consultants in Detroit, Southfield, Novi, Livonia, and St. Clair Shores, MI, at (248) 569-5985.