Acute vs. Chronic Sinusitis

There are around 30 million confirmed sufferers of sinusitis in the United States alone. However, many patients are suffering from what is known as chronic rather than acute sinusitis, and they may not even know it. There are plenty of similarities between the two forms of the condition, but there are also some very important distinctions. Most notably, acute sinusitis usually responds well to medication, and patients do not experience frequent bouts.

Knowing the difference helps patients make informed decisions about how to address symptoms and find relief from pain and discomfort. Treating persistent sinusitis with medications that have proven ineffective is an exercise in futility. In order to safely and effectively treat sinusitis, there are a number of key factors to consider. Sinusitis results in inflamed nasal cavities caused from infection, blockage or excess mucus.

Green, yellow or clear mucus as discharge, the cause of nasal congestion, is a common symptom of sinusitis. You may also experience a number of other symptoms, including swelling of or pressure around the sinuses, coughing, a sore throat, fatigue, fever and generally experiencing periods of feeling run down. These symptoms alone are not enough to determine whether you are suffering from acute or chronic sinusitis. The severity of the symptoms, how long they last and how often the patient suffers from bouts of the condition, is what is most important when it comes to effective treatment.

Treatment Options

If you experience sinus infections three or more times a year, regardless of severity, you are most likely dealing with chronic sinusitis. Even if the condition clears up within 2-3 weeks with medication and changes to lifestyle, you are still spending a significant portion of the year in pain and feeling miserable. Seeking more effective treatment options will provide you with relief that is long lasting and prevents further infections. Dr. Greg Levitin provides a procedure known as a balloon sinuplasty, which is non-invasive and results in a shorter recovery period than more invasive surgeries.

This type of treatment is suited to patients who suffer from chronic sinusitis, especially where the cause is related to a defect in nasal cavities that results in persistent inflammation. The procedure opens up the cavities and prevents infections and blockages from occurring. This allows the sufferer to find relief from the more severe symptoms associated with sinusitis. If you have been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis, Dr. Greg Levitin is available for a consultation at his New York offices.

Do not allow the ill effects of sinusitis to ruin your life. Seek professional treatment from an experienced surgeon. Contact Dr. Greg Levitin today for information on what’s involved in a balloon sinuplasty and how it can help you find relief from nasal infections.