Sinus pain is an annoying, uncomfortable condition to deal with, potentially putting you out of commission for weeks at a time. Luckily, relief is available at your Westport, CT ear, nose and throat specialist, Dr. Andrew Parker, MD at Parker Ear, Nose and Throat.
Why does sinus pain occur?
Sinus pain can come from many sources. More often than not, sinusitis is to blame. Sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal sinus, and can be one of the following varieties:
- Acute: lasting less than four weeks
- Chronic: lasting longer than four weeks
- Reoccurring: acute sinusitis that keeps coming back
Allergies may also cause uncomfortable sinus pain. Additionally, blockages in the passage that allows mucus to drain from the nasal cavity cause pain. At-home treatments like applying warm compresses to the face or using a neti pot to clear sinuses are sometimes not enough to open blocked passageways. The best way to determine the best course of treatment or how severe your condition is is to consult with our doctor.
Treatment Options for Sinus Pain
Sinus pain can be an irritating problem. Luckily, there are many treatments available. Some common treatments for sinus pain include:
- Allergy medication: Sinus pain is often caused by untreated allergies. Your doctor can test to determine if allergies are causing your sinus problems. Antihistamines, which control allergic reactions, could be a simple answer to your sinus pain.
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is causing your sinus pain, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics are only effective in cases of bacterial infections, and will not help with a viral infection.
- Decongestants: Decongestants help reduce the presence of mucus in the nasal cavity. However, they should not be taken for more than a week.
- Nasal steroid sprays: Prescribed by your doctor, steroids can be inhaled to bring down the swelling of the membranes in the nasal passage. Oral steroids may be prescribed in more severe cases.
- Surgery: Surgery to open the nasal passage and flush the nasal cavity may be required in cases of reoccurring or chronic sinusitis. Your surgeon will use special tools to remove blockages and restructure the walls of the nasal passage to allow mucus to drain normally.
If you are suffering from sinus pain, contact Dr. Andrew Parker at Parker Ear, Nose and Throat in Westport, CT for more information. Call 203-866-8121 to schedule your appointment today!