What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the tissues lining the sinuses and drainage pathways. While it is quite common, with over 31 million adults across the US suffering from sinusitis, the symptoms associated with this condition adversely affect the lives of sufferers, and often persist despite medication. This condition has a detrimental effect on both adults and children. At Capitol Breathe Free, we are committed to helping you navigate the journey towards reclaiming your health.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the sinus lining, which can lead to poor or blocked sinus drainage

A diagram detailing the development of sinusitis.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the sinus lining, which can lead to poor or blocked sinus drainage

Normally, sinuses are filled with air

Sinus pathway becomes swollen

Blocked sinuses fill with fluid

Pathogens can grow and cause infection

What are the causes of sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is caused by various factors, including:

Bacteria
Infections
Allergies
Inflammation of the nasal lining

A woman with teary eyes holding a napkin to her face.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Pinpointing sinusitis can be challenging due to the variety of symptoms it can present. It is crucial to obtain an accurate diagnosis so a proper treatment plan can be established. Symptoms may include:

Facial pain with or without pressure: occurring around the eyes, nose, jaw and teeth
Fatigue: Pain and congestion can disrupt sleep, resulting in exhaustion
Low grade fever
Frequent stuffiness and congestion due to swelling in the nasal passages, making breathing difficult and causing a stuffy nose
Obstructed nasal passages
Reduced sense of smell and taste
Headaches
Postnasal drip, or mucus trickling down the back of the nose into the throat
Nasal discharge, or green/yellow mucus draining from the nose

What are the different types of sinusitis?

Sinusitis is typically classified into three main categories: acute, chronic, and recurrent. Although each type shares similar symptoms, they differ in terms of duration and frequency of reappearance.

Acute Sinusitis: Occurring after a cold, this type is short-lived and usually lasts one week to 10 days.
Subacute Sinusitis: If your infection lasts for 6 weeks and then you notice an improvement in your symptoms, then your infection is considered subacute.
Chronic Sinusitis: An infection that lasts for 12 weeks or more is considered chronic sinusitis. Your symptom severity may vary but will not entirely improve.
Recurrent Sinusitis: Characterized by four or more acute sinusitis infections in one calendar year, recurrent sinusitis involves symptom relief between illnesses, but the infections will persist.

What are sinusitis treatment options?

Individuals suffering from sinusitis have an array of treatment options that range from over-the-counter medications to surgical interventions.

Medication: Your symptoms, severity and duration will all be factors in determining the use of medications to reduce your ailments. Our physicians may recommend options such as prescription medication, over-the-counter aides, and home remedies.
Balloon Sinuplasty: Balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon sinus dilation, involves the gentle enlargement of your natural sinus openings via a minimally invasive procedure. This in-office treatment option enhances your drainage issues and corrects your nasal anatomy.

OFFICE BALLOON

SINUS DILATION

Sinus Surgery: Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) may be an appropriate treatment for certain sinusitis sufferers. FESS aims to enhance your nasal anatomy, thereby improving sinus drainage by facilitating the natural flow of mucus through the expansion of your sinus openings. Balloon sinuplasty can be used in conjunction with a FESS procedure as well.

Let Capitol Breathe Free Help

At Capitol Breathe Free, our professional team specializes in evaluating sinusitis and tailoring personalized treatment plans for each patient. We prioritize listening, evaluating, and devising customized solutions for specific sinus conditions. Our friendly team at Capitol Breathe Free is proficient in managing sinusitis and ensuring a precise diagnosis that will help you breathe optimally. Don’t suffer for another day – book an appointment and take back control of your life!

what our ENT patients are saying...

"Run don't walk to see Dr. Khanna. Hands down one of the best doctors ever!"

- M.P.

"Dr. Khanna is an excellent doctor. He is highly skilled and professional."

- K in Alexandria, VA

"Really liked him, great bedside manner, very personal, caring, direct and informative. Takes time to explain everything and options. Would highly recommend him."

- Patient

"Dr. Khanna has excellent bedside manners and he listens. He goes out of his way to assist his patients. He is honest with his patients if he has to make referral."

- Patient

"Dr. Khanna is intelligent, respectful and genuine. He's always up-to-date on the latest medical breakthroughs. Me, my husband and daughter are all patients of Dr. Khanna, and always will be."

- B.A.

"I came in with an unending sore throat, and was in to see the Doctor and left with a diagnosis in record time. Dr. Khanna and his staff were professional and efficient. I will definitely come back if I have any other sinus issues and highly recommend."

- S.S.