Recurrent Sinus Infections
Sinus infections that keep coming back? Our board-certified allergist finds the underlying cause and treats it, across our New Jersey offices.
Looking for information on nasal allergies and ongoing sinus inflammation? See Rhinitis and Sinusitis.
What Is a Sinus Infection
A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, happens when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes inflamed. Sinus infections are generally described by how long they last and how often they occur:
- Acute — a sinus infection that comes on and resolves within a shorter period of time.
- Chronic — a sinus infection or sinus inflammation that persists over a longer period of time.
- Recurrent — repeated sinus infections that keep coming back.
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats sinus infections, including infections that recur or persist, across our New Jersey offices.
Symptoms
These are common signs of a sinus infection. If you notice any of these, it's worth having them evaluated.
Pressure or pain in the face
Thick, discolored nasal drainage
A blocked nose
Reduced sense of smell
Post-nasal drip
Cough
Good to Know
Most short sinus infections are viral and self-clearing.
A bacterial infection is more likely if symptoms last longer than 10 days or if symptoms worsen.
Why See an Allergist
Recurrent or persistent sinus infections often have an underlying cause. Common contributors include:
Nasal Allergies
Underlying nasal allergies can contribute to sinus infections that recur or persist.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps can block normal drainage and contribute to recurrent or persistent infections.
Asthma
Asthma is often linked with recurrent or persistent sinus infections.
Weak Immune Response
A weak immune response can make it harder to clear sinus infections and can contribute to them recurring.
How We Evaluate
Evaluating a sinus infection starts with understanding you as an individual. We use these methods:
History and Examination
We start with a detailed history and physical examination to understand your symptoms and their pattern.
Rhinoscopy
A rhinoscopy, a look inside the nasal passages, can help us see what is happening.
Allergy Testing
Allergy testing can help identify whether nasal allergies are contributing to your sinus infections.
Immune Function Blood Tests
For frequent infections, immune function blood tests can help us understand what may be contributing.
CT Scan Referral
When needed, we can refer you for a CT scan to get a more detailed look at the sinuses.
How It's Treated
Our approach to treating sinus infections includes:
Saline Rinses
Saline rinses help clear the nasal passages and reduce congestion.
Steroid Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses.
Antibiotics
When a bacterial infection is likely, antibiotics may be part of your treatment.
Treating Underlying Allergies
When nasal allergies contribute to your sinus infections, we treat them, including with allergen immunotherapy.
Biologic Medications
For chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps, biologic medications may be part of your treatment plan.
How It's Treated
Our approach to treating sinus infections includes:
Saline Rinses
Saline rinses can help clear the nasal passages and ease symptoms.
Steroid Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are used for infections that are likely bacterial.
Treating Underlying Allergies
We treat underlying allergies, including with allergen immunotherapy, when they are contributing to your sinus infections.
Biologic Medications
Biologic medications are available for chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps.