My sinuses are always bothering me! Do I have sinusitis?

Sinusitis involves one or more of the following symptoms: stuffy nose (nasal congestion), runny nose, post-nasal drip, facial pain / pressure, sinus headache, and/or change in smell. The word sinusitis describes a condition of infection or irritation of the sinuses, which are air filled spaces in our cheeks, between our eyes, and in our forehead.

Sinusitis is a VERY common condition, with close to 40 million Americans having at least one sinus infection every year. Symptoms from sinusitis can come and go (acute sinusitis), happen over and over (recurrent sinusitis), or can be constant (chronic sinusitis). People who suffer from chronic stuffy nose (nasal congestion), allergies, or have a deviated septum may be more susceptible to acute, recurrent, or chronic sinusitis.

What to Expect During Your Sinusitis Evaluation

Evaluation for sinusitis will involve a thorough physical examination of the ear, nose, and throat. Since the sinuses are located deep within the nose, a comprehensive nose and sinus exam will possibly involve evaluation with a camera (endoscope). This will allow Dr. Filimonov to determine if there is swelling (congestion), irritation, pus (active infection), deviated septum, turbinate hypertrophy, or things like nasal polyps (swelling that blocks that nose) inside of your sinuses.

Advanced Diagnostics using CT scans

Based on the history and examination Dr. Filimonov may suggest that imaging of the nose and sinuses be performed. A CT scan is the most common type of imaging ordered for sinusitis, and allows Dr. Filimonov to see every part of your sinuses. Allergy testing may also be offered for patients who present with sinusitis but also suffer from seasonal or year-long allergies.

Your Personalized Treatment Plan for sinusitis

Once we have all of the information Dr. Filimonov will discuss all of the information with you and prepare a specially tailored treatment plan specific to your symptoms and physical exam findings. First line treatment for sinusitis usually includes oral and/or topical (nasal spray) medications such as antibiotics, steroids, antihistamines (allergy medications), and salt water (saline) rinses for the nose. If symptoms persist, or don’t improve enough, then there are a variety of procedures and surgeries that you can discuss with Dr. Filimonov to significantly improve your quality of life and decrease the bothersome symptoms associated with sinusitis.

Am I a good candidate for a sinusitis evaluation?

Anyone with sudden, recurrent, or chronic nose issues such as stuffy nose (nasal congestion), runny nose, post-nasal drip, facial pain, sinus headache, or change in smell is likely suffering from some degree of sinusitis and should be evaluated by a board-certified sinus physician such as Dr. Andrey Filimonov.