Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, is a common condition that can cause a range of symptoms including nasal congestion, headaches, facial pain, and difficulty breathing through the nose. While many cases of sinusitis can be managed with over-the-counter medications and home remedies, there are certain situations when it may be necessary to see a sinus doctor.
Prolonged Symptoms
If your symptoms last abnormally long, the sinuitis may have become too severe for your body to easily overcome. There also could be something more serious causing the symptoms.
Most cases of sinusitis don't necessarily resolve themselves overnight, but do within a relatively short time frame. If you have a case that seems to never go away, make an appointment with a sinus doctor.
Primary Doctor Recommendation
Many people see their primary care provider (PCP) when they experience sinusitis, as the condition can usually be overcome without much specialist intervention. Thus, your PCP likely knows your history of sinus issues and other medical concerns well.
Should your PCP ever recommend seeing a sinus doctor, heed their advice. Their knowledge of medicine and your personal health give such a recommendation worthy of strong consideration.
Frequent Sinus Issues
If you are experiencing sinus infections on a regular basis, it may be worth seeing a sinus doctor to determine the underlying cause and discuss possible treatment options. They might recommend a medication that can be used as a preventative measure or be able to perform a minor surgery that will greatly reduce the number of sinus infections that you experience.
What exactly constitutes frequent sinus issues depends on your personal health and situation. Whether your experience constitutes frequent is a good question to ask your PCP.
Severe Symptoms
If you are experiencing severe sinusitis symptoms such as severe facial pain, severe headache, fever, or difficulty breathing through your nose, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
In this situation, you might make an immediate appointment with a sinus doctor if there's a nearby ENT practice that's open. Otherwise, you should go to an urgent care center or emergency room.
Structural Anomalies
If you have structural abnormalities in your sinuses such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, it may be necessary to see a sinus doctor to discuss treatment options. ENTs are the specialists who best know how to address these types of anomalies.
Most people don't personally know whether they have nasal abnormalities. A doctor or other provider might mention something in passing, though. If anyone ever comments on abnormalities of the nose or nasal passages, ask them to refer you to a sinus doctor. For more information, contact a sinus doctor near you.
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