Acute bacterial sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavity caused by bacteria.
One of the most common health conditions in America, sinusitis can often be described as a cold or allergy attack that simply won’t go away. However, unlike a cold, bacterial sinusitis requires a physician’s diagnosis and treatment to address the infection and prevent complications. Frequent sinusitis or infections lasting several months may indicate a chronic sinusitis condition which may cause damage to your sinuses.
Dr. Helming and Dr. Hetrick can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the appropriate course of treatment which may include an oral or nasal spray, decongestants, and antibiotic therapy. Many people who suffer from frequent bouts of sinusitis also have nasal obstructions which cannot be corrected with medication alone. Our Otolaryngologists can offer some simple surgical options which can alleviate these recurring conditions.
If you are one of the 37 million Americans who suffer from sinusitis each year, do something about it. Contact our ENT specialists who can help you develop a plan of treatment that is right for you.
Schedule a Consult
When should you consult an Otolaryngologist about your condition? If you suffer from 3 or more of these symptoms, ask your doctor about the possibility of sinusitis.
Symptoms | Sinusitis | Allergy | Cold |
---|---|---|---|
Facial Pressure and/or Pain | Yes | Sometimes | Sometimes |
Duration of Illness | 10 - 14+ days | Varies | Under 10 days |
Nasal Discharge | Whitish or Colored | Clear, Watery, Thin | Thick, Whitish or Thin |
Fever | Sometimes | No | Sometimes |
Headache | Often | Sometimes | Sometimes |
Pain in Upper Teeth | Sometimes | No | No |
Bad Breath | Sometimes | No | No |
Coughing | Sometimes | Sometimes | Yes |
Nasal Congestion | Yes | Sometimes | Yes |
Sneezing | No | Sometimes | Yes |