The most common symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis are:

• Nasal stuffiness
• Headaches (in the front of your head or around your nose)
• Post nasal drainage
• Discolored nasal discharge
• Cough

Chronic sinusitis symptoms can interfere with your daily life, and many people who suffer from chronic sinusitis find it may be difficult to concentrate at work or enjoy social activities. Many patients with chronic sinusitis find it difficult to get out of bed in the morning to start the day.

Seeking the help of an allergist is essential to finding relief from this constant, bothersome inflammation. A board certified allergist is trained to find the underlying cause of chronic sinusitis and to solve the problem.

 

Your first visit to the allergist will take approximately two hours. You may be asked to stop taking antihistamines or other drugs prior to your visit as some drugs may interfere with the results of your tests. If you have any questions regarding medication you may be taking, please ask your allergist prior to your appointment.

 

The allergist will conduct a careful patient history, including an assessment of your symptoms and a relevant physical exam to look for polyps or changes in the anatomy of the nose. The allergist will also conduct skin testing to determine which allergies are causing nasal swelling.

Your allergist may also decide to conduct a computed tomography scan—or CT scan—of your sinuses. A CT scan will tell your allergist precisely where your inflammation and/or infection may be, as well as if any structural problems exist.

Once the allergist knows the allergens that are causing your chronic sinusitis, a treatment plan will be recommended. Treatment may include:

• Nasal steroid sprays
• Saline irrigation
• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines/decongestants
• Immunotherapy

 

When the underlying cause of chronic sinusitis is treated effectively, it frequently disappears or becomes less of a problem. Since allergies can lead to chronic sinusitis, immunotherapy (or IT) may be the most effective long-term approach towards a cure. IT is the only way to rid the body of nasal allergies. In essence, IT is a vaccine against allergies. As you receive IT, you gradually decrease your sensitivity and build up your immunity to your allergens.

If your chronic sinusitis is due to structural problems, your allergist will refer you to your primary care physician for a discussion regarding available options.

 

If your chronic sinusitis goes untreated, you can expect frequent sinus, ear and upper and lower respiratory infections. It is even possible for the infection to invade the boney tissue (osteomyelitis), and in rare cases it can cause meningitis. Allergies and chronic sinusitis are responsible for symptoms that make it difficult to enjoy a productive, active life. Don’t let allergies or chronic sinusitis control your life! Work with your allergist to find a solution that helps you take back control and live free of chronic sinusitis.