Dealing with sinus infections can be frustrating, but when they become chronic, finding lasting relief becomes essential. While medications and home treatments work for many, some cases require more advanced solutions. How do you know when surgery might be the right choice?
Recognizing the signs of chronic sinus infections
A sinus infection is considered chronic if it lasts for 12 weeks or longer despite treatment or if you experience four or more infections per year with lingering symptoms between episodes. Chronic sinus infections, known as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), occur when the sinuses remain inflamed and fail to drain properly over an extended period.
Common symptoms of CRS include:
- Nasal congestion that makes it difficult to breathe
- Facial pressure or pain around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks
- Frequent sinus headaches
- Thick nasal discharge, often yellow or green in color
- Postnasal drip, leading to throat irritation and coughing
- Swelling and tenderness around the nose and eyes
- Decreased sense of smell and taste
If your sinus infections are persistent and disruptive despite treatment, it may be time to explore more effective solutions.
Treatment options for sinus infections
Most sinus infections can be managed with a combination of home remedies and medical treatments, including:
- Medications such as antibiotics (if bacterial), corticosteroids, and decongestants
- Saline irrigation using sprays or rinses to clear nasal passages
- Hydration and steam therapy to help loosen mucus
- Rest and immune support to aid natural recovery
How to prevent the frequency of sinus infections
To reduce the frequency of sinus infections, consider the following:
- Avoid exposure to smoke and environmental irritants
- Manage allergies with medication or immunotherapy (allergy shots)
- Use a HEPA air purifier to remove allergens from indoor air
- Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent viral infections
- Get vaccinated against the flu to reduce upper respiratory infections
- Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages from drying out
If these strategies fail to provide lasting relief, it may be time to explore more advanced options.
When to see an ENT specialist for frequent sinus infections
If chronic sinus infections persist despite treatment, consulting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is the next step. Your ENT doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to assess inflammation or structural issues that could be contributing to your condition.
When does surgery become an option?
Sinus surgery is typically considered when:
- Symptoms persist despite prolonged medical treatment
- Nasal polyps or structural abnormalities block proper drainage
- Chronic inflammation is confirmed through imaging
- Frequent infections significantly impact daily life
What does sinus surgery do?
Sinus surgery is often a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, designed to:
- Improve sinus drainage
- Remove blockages like polyps or abnormal tissue
- Prevent mucus buildup and future infections
Recovery from sinus surgery is generally quick, with most patients experiencing significant symptom relief.
Take the next step toward relief
If you struggle with chronic sinus infections and conservative treatments haven’t worked, it may be time to discuss surgical options with an ENT specialist. Long-term relief is possible.
Find an ENT specialist near you to schedule a consultation and explore the best solution for your sinus health.