Sinus Disease

The paranasal sinuses are air spaces located above, below, and between the eyes and behind the nasal cavity.  These air spaces open up into the nose.  Colds and allergies frequently trigger sinus infections. Symptoms of sinusitis include nasal drainage, congestion, facial pressure, cough, headache and decreased sense of smell. Sinusitis becomes chronic when these symptoms do not clear or frequently recur. It can also be exacerbated by structural problems in the nose, such as a deviated nasal septum.

The office examination may include evaluation with an endoscope and a CT scan of the sinuses to confirm the diagnosis.  This office is an accredited facility for performance of CT scans of the sinuses, which allows for an efficient and accurate diagnosis.

Another nasal condition that may be revealed is the presence of nasal polyps.  Nasal polyps may be the result of chronic sinusitis, allergy, or may be of unknown etiology.  They can cause nasal blockage, sinus infections, mouth breathing and diminished sense of smell.  The extent of the polyps is determined by nasal exam, office flexible endoscopy and CT scan.

Chronic or recurrent sinusitis and nasal polyps can be effectively treated with medication, allergy treatment, as well as endoscopic sinus surgery.  For many patients, the removal of nasal polyps is curative, but depending on the source of the polyps, they occasionally recur.  The chance of recurrence can be reduced with prescription nasal steroid sprays and allergy treatment.