Chronic sinus infections can be frustrating and may affect daily productivity and comfort. At Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, our team offers comprehensive ENT evaluations and individualized treatment plans that are developed based on your symptoms, exam findings, and overall health profile. These plans are intended to help manage symptoms where appropriate, though individual results vary depending on the underlying condition and response to treatment.
Sinus Infection Treatment in Austin, TX
Sinus Infection Treatment in Austin, TX
What Causes Sinus Infections?
Located behind the cheeks, eyes, and forehead are hollow, air-filled spaces called the sinuses. These cavities produce mucus to humidify and filter the air we breathe. A sinus infection, or sinusitis, can occur when there is irritation or inflammation in these passages, often due to:
- Allergies
- Viral infections (e.g., the common cold or influenza)
- Bacterial infections
- Structural issues (e.g., nasal polyps or deviated septum)
If left untreated, sinus infections can impact daily comfort and may lead to potential complications. If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms, an ENT evaluation is recommended to identify the root cause and determine an individualized care plan.
What Are the Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection?
Sinusitis symptoms vary per patient, but common signs to look out for include:
- Nasal congestion
- Facial pain or pressure, particularly around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead
- Runny nose with thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
- Coughing or sore throat
- Sneezing
- Headaches
- Poor sleep quality and fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Bad breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in the mouth
Patients with a sinus infection will experience varying degrees of symptoms. It’s important to consult with an ENT specialist to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plans to manage symptoms.
Treatment Options for Sinus Infections
The most appropriate treatment approach varies depending on symptom severity, underlying cause, and other patient-specific factors. Treatment options may include:
Medications
Some mild cases may achieve temporary relief from medications:
- Decongestants may help reduce nasal tissue swelling
- Nasal and systemic corticosteroids may reduce inflammation
- Nasal saline rinses as a home remedy for symptoms
- Mucolytics can thin mucus and improve sinus drainage
While these over-the-counter medications may offer symptom relief, they may not address more persistent or chronic sinus infections, which often require targeted medical evaluation and treatment. Medications should be used under medical guidance. If symptoms persist, consult with your doctor.
Balloon Sinuplasty: A Minimally Invasive Treatment Option
If medications and home remedies don’t seem to work and your symptoms continue to persist, your ENT care provider may recommend balloon sinuplasty if appropriate, based on a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and nasal anatomy.
Balloon sinuplasty, or balloon sinus dilation, is an in-office, minimally invasive procedure that may be appropriate for select patients. The procedure uses a small balloon catheter to gently open blocked sinus passages, which may improve mucus flow and drainage in some patients. This is done without cutting or removing bone or tissue.
⚠️ Effectiveness can vary and is based on individual nasal anatomy and the severity of the symptoms.
How it works:
The balloon is inserted into the sinus passages, and once in place, it’s gently inflated to open the sinus openings. Then, the balloon is gently deflated and removed.
Potential benefits:
- In-office procedure performed under local anesthesia
- Minimally invasive and doesn’t involve removing or cutting bone and tissue
- Downtime varies depending on individual health factors, but some patients may resume light activities soon after the procedure
Not all patients are ideal candidates for balloon sinuplasty. An ENT consultation and evaluation are required to determine if this is the appropriate procedure for you. Individual results vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed.
Let Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy Help You Explore Sinus Infection Treatment Options
Here at Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, we can help assess persistent symptoms such as nasal obstruction, sinus pain and pressure, and postnasal drip to provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss personalized care options in Austin, TX, based on ENT evaluation and diagnosis.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your sinus symptoms with our ENT team
Individual results may vary.
The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.