Sinus Infection: Affecting 30 million in the U.S.

A sinus is the cavity within a bone, in particular, one of the mucous membrane-lined, air-filled spaces in the bones surrounding the nose. The facial sinuses consist of the two frontal sinuses in the frontal bone of the forehead, two maxillary sinuses in the cheekbones, two ethmoid sinuses between the nose and the eye sockets, and the sphenoid sinuses which are air spaces in the large, winged bone behind the nose. Mucous drains from each sinus along a narrow channel that opens into the nose.

According to Dr Joel Alexander, ENT in Atlanta, more than 30 million Americans suffer from sinus problems, in particular, sinus infections.

lnfections cause pain, pressure, congestion and swelling that obstruct the sinuses and prevent them from draining properly.

Allergies, smoke, pollution or an upper respiratory infection such as a cold can lead to sinusitis, which is an inflammation of the sinuses. This condition is considered extremely common, and unfortunately, once the tendency for a sinus infection builds up, the more likely it will reoccur with each insult. Sinusitis causes a feeling of pressure and throbbing in the affected sinuses, as well as fever, stuffy nose, loss of sense of smell, and post-nasal drainage.

Antibiotic drugs are usually prescribed to fight the infection, and decongestants can also be used to reduce nasal swelling and allow drainage to occur more freely. For more severe cases, surgical drainage of the affected area may be necessary for relief.

Patients who suffer from chronic sinus infections may also have a deviated septum. This occurs when the wall between the nasal cavities is crooked, interfering with sinus drainage and breathing. The surgical procedure utilized for this problem is called a septoplasty. The procedure to correct sinusitis is called endoscopic sinus surgery.

lncisions are made inside the nose to provide access to the septal cartilage and bone, and to gain access to the sinus openings. The septum is reshaped, repositioned, or removed; thus, allowing air to pass through open nasal passages. Sinus openings are enlarged, and thickened mucosa and disease are removed.

Packing of the nose may be necessary to assist in repositioning the mucous lining for approximately one to three days following the surgery. Packing also helps to reduce bleeding and the chances of internal scarring. Prescription medication is provided for pain and swelling, and follow-up visits will be necessary to regulate the healing process. The results of septoplasty and endoscopic sinus surgery have shown to be overwhelmingly successful. Patients say they are able to sleep better at night, can breathe more easily, and don't find themselves taking antibiotics continuously to control chronic sinus infections that never seem to go away.

Dr. Alexander encourages patients with irritating symptoms such as chronically clogged sinuses and pounding headaches to seek a medical consultation and evaluation. Over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants don't always relieve the feeling of misery caused by sinus infections; severe problems need the technology and expertise of a qualified ear, nose, and throat specialist.