Why Do I Keep Getting Sinus Infections?

Sinus infections that happen over and over can be annoying and degrade your quality of life. While home remedies and over-the-counter medications can dull your pain and mask your symptoms, recurring infections are a sign that something more serious is going on. If you’re one of the many people suffering from chronic sinusitis, it might be time to assess your options and look into a more permanent solution. 

SLENT, or South Louisiana Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastics, has multiple locations throughout Mandeville, Hammond, and Slidell, Louisiana. Each one is staffed with experienced otolaryngology specialists who can help determine the cause of your sinusitis, explain your treatment options, and help you find a solution that works for you.

Causes of chronic sinusitis 

Your sinuses are small, air-filled pockets located behind your nose, forehead, cheekbones, and eyes. They’re constantly producing mucus to help keep your airways clear and healthy. However, viruses and allergens can cause an overproduction of mucus, which leads to sinus headaches, congestion, and other symptoms. This is known as sinusitis

Sinus infections can be difficult to treat, especially if you have cramped sinuses that are prone to infection. Many people with chronic sinusitis suffer from one or more of the following:

Any one of these issues makes it easy for your sinuses to become congested and infected over and over again.

Treatment options for chronic sinus infections

If you’re tired of dealing with recurring sinus infections, you should talk to your doctor about more permanent solutions. Antibiotics, steroids, OTC medications, and home remedies can only go so far when you’re prone to infection. 

Luckily, you have options when it comes to treatment. If you have nasal polyps or bone spurs causing congestion in your sinuses, surgery to remove these obstructions can prevent future infections. 

Septoplasty

Those with severely deviated septums might benefit from septoplasty, a surgical procedure that aims to correct the deviation. This is done by trimming tissue, repositioning bones, and adjusting the cartilage in your nose. 

Sinuplasty

Balloon sinuplasty is another option. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that’s done in-house and requires little recovery and downtime. The procedure is done using an endoscope, which is inserted into your nostril. 

The endoscope is outfitted with a small balloon and a high-definition camera. Your surgeon uses this camera to position the balloon before inflating it. Once inflated, it puts pressure on your sinuses, opening up the entrances. Your doctor will flush the congestion from your sinuses, deflate the balloon, and remove the endoscope. This flush provides extra space in your sinuses and prevents further congestion. 

Interested in learning more about sinusitis, surgical septoplasty, and balloon sinuplasty? Schedule a consultation with the experts at SLENT by calling the location closest to you, or visit the contact page for more information. 

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