Why is sinusitis so difficult to diagnose and treat?
Even though the condition is relatively common, it is under diagnosed or incorrectly diagnosed, probably due to lack of adequate knowledge of the disease and its treatment. Many people feel sinus infections are just “another head cold” and self medicate with over the counter sprays and tablets, which are ineffective long term. Many people live with this condition until the symptoms are so bad, they finally seek medical help from a specialist. What is new in medical management of sinusitis? Most often, acute single episodes of sinusitis are successfully treated with medication. Based on the symptoms and possible nasal culture, the appropriate antibiotic can be prescribed. This is enhanced with thoughtful selection of nasal decongestants, nasal steroid sprays, washes, and possible antihistamines. When this fails and the condition progresses to chronic sinusitis, prolonged courses of antibiotics may be attempted. When this fails, a CT scan should be obtained and surgical management should
