Sinusitis Specialist

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is a condition in which your sinuses become inflamed and infected. You have many sinuses located in your face behind your nose and forehead that can become inflamed when mucus becomes trapped and irritates the linings of your sinuses. Trapped mucus and irritation to your sinuses lead to infection.

What causes sinusitis?

Sinusitis is typically divided into acute and chronic categories. Most cases of acute sinusitis are caused by the common cold and resolve within about 10 days. Chronic sinusitis typically lasts longer than 12 weeks and is often caused by asthma or allergic rhinitis. Other causes of sinusitis include:

• Infections
• Deviated nasal septum
• Fungus
• Nasal polyps
• Immune system deficiency

Depending on your symptoms and the duration of your illness, your provider determines the cause of your sinus infection and recommends an appropriate treatment plan.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Sinusitis symptoms are more severe than the common cold and often cause issues like:

• Painful pressure in the cheeks and forehead
• Thick, yellow-green colored nasal discharge
• Cough
• Congestion
• Toothache
• Possible fever

These symptoms typically point to a more serious issue than allergies or the common cold. You should seek treatment immediately in order to reduce the duration of your symptoms and begin recovering as soon as possible.

How is sinusitis diagnosed?

At Schaumburg Immediate Care, your provider begins by discussing your medical history and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, your nose and sinuses are examined using a rhinoscope or endoscope — a thin, flexible device, which is placed inside your nose and attached to a viewing piece with a light for visualization. Your provider uses this device to look inside your nose for signs of redness, mucus discharge, and infection.

In rare cases, your provider may refer you for an MRI or CT scan if they suspect a more serious cause of your symptoms.

How is sinusitis treated?

Depending on the severity of your condition and the cause of your sinusitis, your provider may recommend one or more of the following treatment options:

• Over-the-counter decongestants or nasal sprays
• Saline rinse of the nasal cavities
• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Inhaling warm, moist air
• Antibiotics, in cases of bacterial infections

Your provider may also recommend an increase in fluid intake and rest while you recover.

Get relief from sinus pain and pressure by visiting Schaumburg Immediate Care. To set up a visit, call or book online now or walk-in as needed.