Sinusitis (sinus infection) diagnosis and treatments are offered at our medical practice. Our doctors treat both children and adults. If you suspect you suffer from symptoms associated with sinusitis, scheduling a consultation is the first step to receiving the treatment that works best for you.Â
Allergic sinusitis occurs as a result of exposure to indoor or outdoor environmental allergens. Your sinuses consist of air pockets located behind the cheekbones and forehead. Mucus is created inside of the lining of the sinuses and sinus inflammation can lead to a blockage of mucus, which ultimately causes pain, pressure, runny nose, and sinus congestion when left untreated.
Allergic chronic sinusitis may initially present itself as acute sinusitis (caused by an infection of the sinus lining) and may be further triggered by:Â
- Adult asthma or pediatric asthma
- Sports (swimming, diving)Â
- Cystic fibrosis
- Teeth, neck, or cheek traumaÂ
- Nasal polyps
- SmokingÂ
Environmental allergies can cause the sinuses to become inflamed and ultimately result in a variety of symptoms including:Â
- Nose: Runny nose, green or yellow mucus
- Head: Headache, pressure behind the forehead
- Eyes: Itchy/watery/red eyes, pressure behind eyes
- Throat: Chronic cough, bad breath, sore or irritated throat, wheezing, change in sense of smell, post-nasal drip
- Face: Pressure/pain, swelling, sinus congestion
Symptoms associated with allergic sinusitis may be associated with the common cold or seasonal flu, not allergies.Â
The locality of your symptoms associated with sinusitis depends upon the sinuses that are affected. There are four main sinuses:
- Frontal (each side of the forehead, above the eyes)Â
- Sphenoid (between the upper section of the nose and behind the eyes)Â
- Maxillary (inside the cheekbones)
- Ethmoid (between the eyes and bridge of the nose)Â
Types of Sinusitis (Sinus Infection):
- Acute Sinusitis: This type of sinusitis typically only lasts for up to 12 weeks before completely going away. It is very common for patients to only experience acute sinusitis for about 2-3 weeks and can expect a full recovery.Â
- Chronic Sinusitis: This condition lasts at a minimum of 12 weeks and may begin as a case of acute sinusitis, but a full recovery may not occur. Chronic sinusitis may be caused by an environmental allergy and flare-ups may be recurring throughout life.Â
- Recurrent Sinusitis: Those who suffer from at least three recurring episodes of sinusitis in a year may be diagnosed with recurrent sinusitis.Â
Acute and Chronic Sinusitis Treatment
- Nasal Corticosteroid Spray: Your top rated allergy specialist doctor may recommend over-the-counter nasal corticosteroids or prescribe you a specific kind, depending on the severity of symptoms. It is an anti-inflammatory that provides immediate relief from nasal congestion and other symptoms associated with a sinus infection. Â
- Antihistamines: Consists of over-the-counter or prescription medications taken by mouth. Your top of the line board certified immunologist may recommend over-the-counter antihistamines as a first step to treating your condition or may prescribe you stronger antihistamines depending on the severity of your condition. Antihistamines block a chemical created in the body called histamine (which creates allergy-associated symptoms). This medication reduces symptoms associated with acute and chronic sinusitis and provides instant and long-lasting relief (up to 24 hours depending on the brand).Â
- Oral Decongestants: This medication comes in the form of a tablet and is widely available over the counter, though your immunologist may prescribe you stronger oral decongestants if necessary. Oral decongestants provide instant relief for blocked or runny noses and general sinus congestion associated with a sinus infection. This treatment provides temporary, immediate relief for symptoms associated with allergic sinusitis.Â
- Antibiotics: Your top of the line board certified sinus specialist doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat your symptoms associated with acute sinusitis. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to determine whether your acute sinusitis stems from a viral or bacterial infection. Your course of antibiotics is dependent upon the severity of symptoms and previous sinus infection history. Antibiotics for sinus infections are typically taken for 2-3 weeks. If your immunologist prescribes you antibiotics for a sinus infection more than three times a year, you may need to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist doctor for further evaluation.Â
- Montelukast: Also commonly known by its brand name, Singulair®, this prescription oral medication is an anti-inflammatory that helps reduce respiratory symptoms associated with a sinus infection.
Chronic Sinusitis Surgery
If your symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis become too painful or significantly interfere with your daily life, your top rated immunologist may recommend that you see an ENT. The recommended ENT will help provide a more in-depth evaluation of your sinuses to determine if you might require sinus surgery to relieve your recurring symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis.Â
 The sooner you schedule an appointment with one of our top rated immunologists, the sooner you can experience relief!
Allergy & Asthma Center of Long Island
891 Northern Blvd.
Suite #203A
Great Neck, NY 11021
(516) 699-7790