How is sinusitis treated?
Two approaches have emerged for treating sinusitis patients: • Medical therapies • Endoscopic surgical interventions Sinusitis is treated initially with medical therapies. Usually antibiotics or topical nasal steroid sprays are given to reduce mucosal swelling, fight infection, and relieve obstruction at the sinus opening (ostium). These therapies are often effective in reducing sinusitis symptoms. However, for many other patients, these medications are inadequate and sinus surgery may be the next step in finding relief. Surgery may be indicated for those patients whose symptoms and ostial obstruction persist despite medical therapy. With the advent of FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery), sinus surgery has evolved from open and invasive procedures to less invasive surgical techniques. Along with this evolution, many endoscopic tools have been developed to further assist and help improve FESS techniques. These tools include an array of devices such as the microdebrider and the si
The goal in treating sinusitis is to re-open the narrow communication between the sinuses and the nasal cavity (See “What are sinuses?”). This in turn promotes movement of mucus out of the sinus and re-establishes normal oxygen levels within the sinuses. In chronic sinusitis, the principal way to accomplish this goal remains medications. In some patients, medical therapy fails to provide relief of their symptoms. These patients may be considered for surgery (See “What is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?”). Often the treatment of chronic sinusitis involves combining a number of medications. Each class of drugs is summarized below. STEROID NASAL SPRAYS This class of medications works to diminish the nasal lining’s inflammatory response, resulting in less swelling and better mucus transport. These sprays form the first in the treatment of a number of inflammatory conditions within the nose (See “What about other sinus conditions?”). They are typically sprayed into both sides of the nose and work
Sinupulse Nasal IrrigationYour allergist or physician may prescribe antibiotics, decongestants, and/or antihistamines to treat sinusitis. Immunotherapy (“allergy shots”) may also help if your sinusitis is due to allergies. Vicks Personal Steam InhalerSeveral non-drug treatments also work well for sinusitis. Breathing in hot, moist air restores moisture and soothes irritated sinuses. The Vicks Personal Steam Inhaler is the best-selling vaporizer in the world. Saline nasal washes, saline mists, and neti pots flush out allergens and provide moisture for sinus relief. The Grossan Hydro Pulse Nasal/Sinus Irrigation System uses pulses of water to clean out the sinuses. Breathe Right Nasal Strips gently open nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing. Clear-Ease Natural Fruit Enzyme Lozenges help reduce sinus swelling and discomfort naturally. For more information about non-drug sinus relief, see all sinus relief products. Slantfin HumidifierEnvironmental control measures also help to alle
