Sinus infections can be stubborn and painful. Over-the-counter decongestants may not help. If you are looking for a more permanent treatment solution, your sinus specialist has the answers you need. Dr. Shouling Zhang and Dr. John Dishuck at Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center of Tuscaloosa in Tuscaloosa, AL, offer comprehensive asthma and allergy services, including diagnosis and treatment of sinus infections.

What You Need To Know About Sinus Infections

Sinus infections are caused by bacteria in your sinuses. Sinus infections are a common occurrence after a viral or bacterial illness like the flu or a cold, or exposure to an allergen or fungus. You may also develop a sinus infection from a dental problem, or nasal polyps developing in your nose.

Signs and symptoms of a sinus infection can vary from person to person. You may have a sinus infection if you are experiencing:

• Headaches
• A sore throat
• Chronic coughing
• Throbbing pain in your sinuses and behind your eyes
• A green or yellow discharge coming from your nose

Sinus infections don’t usually go away without treatment. If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms listed above, you should seek out the expertise of a sinus specialist, who may recommend:

• Prescription strength antihistamines and decongestants
• Antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection
• Corticosteroid medications to decrease swelling and open your nasal passages
• Allergy testing to determine if your sinus infection is caused by allergies
• Allergy shots or sublingual therapy

For chronic sinus infections, your sinus specialist may recommend a procedure known as balloon sinuplasty. Balloon sinuplasty uses a thin tube with a balloon attached to one end. The tube is inserted in your nostril and guided up into your sinus. When a blockage is reached, the balloon is inflated, eliminating the blockage. The balloon is then deflated, and the tube is removed.

You can help prevent sinus infections by following a few simple steps. You should:

• Irrigate your sinuses with a saline solution to clean out and hydrate your nasal passages and sinuses
• Wash your hands often and don’t touch your mouth, nose, eyes and face
• Place a humidifier in your bedroom to help keep the air moist and reduce nasal irritation
• Avoid tobacco smoke, perfume, plant and flower pollens, dust, and other substances which can irritate sinuses

Want To Know More About Sinus Infections?

To find out more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of sinus infections, call Dr. Shouling Zhang and Dr. John Dishuck at Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center of Tuscaloosa in Tuscaloosa, AL. You can reach them in the office by calling (205) 553-2252, so call today.