Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a condition caused by a virus that makes the cavities around the nasal passages swollen and agitated.
Overview and Symptoms
This may lead to mucus build-up, making it hard to breathe through your nose, and cause swelling or pain. You may develop sinusitis when you have a cold and be able to relieve your symptoms with home remedies; most cases do get better on their own.Sinusitis that lasts more than 12 weeks is considered chronic and can lead to infections and other complications. Possible causes include infection, a deviated septum, and polyps in the nasal cavity.
Treatment
Treatments to reduce chronic sinusitis symptoms and address the underlying cause include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants
- Irrigating the nasal passages
- Corticosteroid sprays, tablets, or injections to relieve inflammation
- Antibiotics if a bacterial infection has developed
- Allergy shots if sinusitis was caused by allergies
- Endoscopic sinus surgery to remove polyps and open blocked passages
Learn More
The Division of Allergy and Inflammation specializes in the diagnosis, testing, and management of allergies, asthma and allergic immune system disorders.