Sinus problems can profoundly affect your daily life, causing bothersome symptoms, like congestion and headaches, that impact both your physical and mental health. At Del Rey MD, we're dedicated to providing the relief you need so you can fully enjoy your daily activities and social interactions once again. Let's work together to alleviate your sinusitis and regain your quality of life!
STOP Symptoms of Sinusitis
Symptoms of sinusitis differ from those of a common cold. While cold symptoms usually resolve within 3-5 days, sinusitis and its array of ailments persist for over 10 days without improvement. Other symptoms may include:
- Facial pressure/pain around the eyes, nose, jaw and teeth
- Poor sleep caused by pain and congestion leading to fatigue and general malaise
- Low grade fever
- Continuous nasal congestion due to swollen nasal passages, resulting in breathing difficulties and nasal obstruction
- Blocked nasal passages
- Decreased 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/cloudy mucus draining from the nose
Obtaining an accurate diagnosis for sinusitis from an experienced ENT specialist is essential. At Del Rey MD, our committed team of professionals is ready to help you put an end to your sinus problems.
STOP Your Sinusitis and Take Back Your Health
Patients dealing with sinusitis have a range of treatment options to explore with our trusted physician, spanning from over-the-counter remedies to surgical procedures.
Natural At-Home Remedies
- Â solution with a neti pot or nose spray to flush out mucus and allergens, reducing inflammation and improving breathing.
- Warm Compress: Apply a warm washcloth to your face to help soothe sinus pain and promote drainage.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water, herbal teas, and clear broths to thin mucus and promote sinus drainage.
- Elevate Your Head: Use extra pillows to keep your head raised when resting or sleeping to reduce sinus pressure and help mucus drain.
- Essential Oils: Eucalyptus or peppermint oil can be added to a diffuser or a steam inhalation to help open the nasal passages and reduce congestion.
- Humidifier Use: Keep the air in your home moist with a humidifier, especially in dry conditions, to prevent your sinuses from becoming irritated.
Medications
Depending on the severity and duration of your symptoms, our doctor may recommend medications to alleviate your discomfort. This can include prescriptions, over-the-counter remedies, or home-based treatments.
- Decongestants: these are utilized to reduce swelling of the sinus lining
- Nasal and systemic steroids: chronic inflammation can be reduced with these treatment options
Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon sinus dilation, is a minimally invasive procedure conducted in-office. It gently enlarges your natural sinus openings to address drainage problems and enhance nasal anatomy, providing a patient-friendly alternative to surgery.
- STOP sinusitis with one single procedure.
- This convenient balloon procedure is conducted in the comfort of our office, with the entire intervention typically lasting about an hour.
- It provides a quick recovery time with remarkable results.
Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) might be recommended for specific sinusitis patients. It aims to improve sinus drainage by optimizing nasal anatomy, facilitating better mucus flow from natural sinus openings. Additionally, balloon sinuplasty can be incorporated into a FESS procedure.
Benefits of FESS
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) relieves sinus blockages and improves overall sinus function. Here are some key benefits of FESS:
- Improved Sinus Drainage: FESS opens up the sinus passages, allowing for better mucus drainage and reducing the frequency of sinus infections and congestion.
- Reduced Sinusitis Symptoms: By addressing the root cause of chronic sinusitis, FESS can significantly reduce symptoms such as facial pain, pressure, headaches, and nasal obstruction.
- Minimally Invasive: The endoscopic approach involves no external incisions, meaning less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and a faster recovery than traditional sinus surgery.
- Enhanced Breathing: Many patients experience improved nasal airflow and breathing after FESS, which can lead to better sleep and overall quality of life.
- Effective for Recurrent Infections: FESS is particularly beneficial for those suffering from recurrent or chronic sinus infections that have not responded well to other treatments.
- Outpatient Procedure: FESS is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, so patients return home the same day.
Before surgery, you should:Â
- Gather all relevant medical information, including previous sinus treatments, allergies, and any current medications.
- Stop taking certain medications indicated by the surgeon.
- Follow any fasting guidelines provided by your surgeon.
- Arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you to and from the surgery center.
- Prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with essential items like tissues, pillows, over-the-counter pain relievers, and easy-to-eat foods.
After surgery, you should:
- Follow Post-Op Instructions: Adhere strictly to the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include using saline nasal sprays, avoiding nose blowing, and taking prescribed medications to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
- Elevate Your Head: Keep your head elevated, especially during the first few days after surgery. This can help minimize swelling and promote drainage.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for at least a week after surgery, as these actions can increase the risk of bleeding or complications.
- Manage Discomfort: Mild pain, congestion, and a feeling of fullness in the nose are common after sinus surgery. Over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
- Nasal Care: Use a saline rinse as directed to keep your nasal passages clear and prevent crusting. Avoid inserting anything into your nose unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Watch for Complications: While complications are rare, be aware of symptoms such as excessive bleeding, high fever, vision changes, or severe pain. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these occur.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure proper healing and to allow your surgeon to monitor your recovery progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Del Rey MD?
At Del Rey MD, we aim to provide the highest standard of care in a compassionate and personalized environment. Our team of experts, led by Dr. Farhad Sigari, MD, FACS, specializes in a comprehensive range of treatments for sinus, allergy, and ear-related conditions, ensuring that you receive the most effective and up-to-date care available.
Dr. Farhad Sigari, a board-certified otolaryngologist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, brings a wealth of expertise to our practice. With his extensive training in head and neck surgery and his dedication to patient-centered care, Dr. Sigari is known for his meticulous approach to diagnosing and treating complex ENT conditions. His commitment to ongoing education and cutting-edge technology means that patients at Del Rey MD benefit from the latest advancements in medical care.
Whether you are seeking relief from chronic sinusitis, managing allergies, or addressing hearing loss, Del Rey MD offers solutions. We pride ourselves on our holistic health approach and dedication to improving your overall well-being. Choose Del Rey MD for exceptional care delivered by professionals passionate about helping you achieve the best possible outcomes.
STOP Sinusitis with Del Rey MD
At Del Rey MD, Dr. Sigari and our expert team are dedicated to helping you STOP your sinusitis. Book an appointment now with our skilled and caring professionals to halt your sinusitis and restore your energy.