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Chronic sinus problems can be incredibly frustrating and disruptive to your daily life. From constant congestion to headaches and facial pain, many people find it difficult to manage these symptoms on their own. Fortunately, there is hope. If you’re struggling with chronic sinus problems, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist may be able to help.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
One of the most important things an ENT can do for you is to evaluate your symptoms and diagnose the underlying problem. Unlike a family doctor or urgent care physician, an ENT has specialized training and expertise in dealing with ear, nose, and throat issues. By asking you specific questions about your symptoms and performing a thorough exam of your nasal passages and sinuses, an ENT can often pinpoint the root cause of your chronic sinus issues. From there, they can recommend the appropriate treatment plan.
Medical Treatment Options
After diagnosis, your ENT may recommend various medical treatment options. These can range from over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants to prescription nasal steroids and sprays. Your ENT may also recommend antibiotics or allergy shots depending on your specific case. Medical treatment often helps alleviate the symptoms of chronic sinus problems, making them more manageable so that you can go about your daily life with fewer disruptions.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
In some cases, medical treatment may not be enough to fully resolve a chronic sinus issue. Your ENT may suggest a minimally invasive procedure such as balloon sinuplasty in these situations. Sinuplasty involves inserting a small balloon through the nasal passages and inflating it to widen and clear the sinus cavity. Other procedures may include endoscopic sinus surgery, which involves using a small camera to remove blockages and alleviate inflammation in your sinuses. These procedures are often done in an outpatient setting and involve minimal downtime.
Ongoing Care and Follow-Up
Another critical way an ENT can assist with chronic sinus problems is by providing ongoing care and follow-up. Sinus problems can be chronic and may require ongoing management and maintenance. Your ENT can help you develop a plan for managing your symptoms and preventing future flare-ups. They can also ensure you are aware of any red flags that prompt you to seek additional care.
Underlying Structural Issues
Finally, an ENT can assist with chronic sinus problems by addressing underlying structural issues. These can include physical abnormalities such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or nasal polyps. An ENT can often provide long-lasting relief from chronic sinus issues by correcting these underlying issues.
If you’re dealing with chronic sinus problems, don’t suffer in silence. Seeing an ENT can help you get the relief you need and improve your quality of life. By evaluating your symptoms, offering medical treatment options, performing minimally invasive procedures, providing ongoing care and follow-up, and addressing underlying structural issues, an experienced ENT can help you breathe easier and feel better.
Contact an ENT sinus doctor near you to learn more.
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