Chronic Sinusitis in Tampa: What Are Your Treatment Options?

Chronic sinus infections and issues can be difficult to deal with and manage. More than mere frustrations, persistent nasal congestion, facial pressure, and recurring sinus infections can significantly impact your breathing and daily activities.

Here at Tampa Bay Breathe Free in St. Petersburg, FL, led by board-certified ENT providers, our team offers a range of services to help our patients in Tampa understand their sinuses and help them better manage their chronic sinus symptoms.

The Basics: Understanding Chronic Sinusitis in Tampa, FL

First, let’s go over the basics of chronic sinusitis and how it impacts the residents of Tampa and nearby Florida residents.

⭕What is chronic sinusitis?

A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is the irritation, swelling, and inflammation of the tissues lining the sinus cavities. The sinus cavities are hollow, air-filled cavities located behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead. When these become swollen or inflamed, they block proper mucus flow and drainage, resulting in congestion, pain, and discomfort.

When the infection lasts for 12 weeks or longer, with no signs of getting better, despite medical treatment and intervention, it becomes what is known as chronic sinusitis.

⭕What are the common symptoms of chronic sinusitis?

Symptoms vary per patient, but common symptoms include:

• Persistent nasal congestion
• Runny nose with thick green or yellow discharge
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• Facial pain or pressure, particularly around the nose, eyes, cheek, or forehead
• Sore throat or coughing
• Headaches
• Toothpain
• Ear pain
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Bad breath, or a bad taste in the mouth

⭕What causes chronic sinusitis?

Several factors can contribute to the development of chronic sinusitis in Tampa, FL. Common causes include:

• Seasonal allergies
• Asthma
• A weakened immune system
• Viral illnesses like the common cold or flu
• Nasal polyps
• A deviated septum

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What Are Your Chronic Sinusitis Treatment Options in Tampa, FL?

For residents in Tampa and the surrounding areas, there are several safe and effective treatment options available to help them manage sinus infections and symptoms better. A consultation with your care provider will help determine which one is right for your condition.

‍💊Medications for relief

• Antihistamines may address allergy-related symptoms
• Decongestants can break down mucus buildup and support sinus drainage
• Saline nasal sprays can gently flush out irritants and hydrate dry sinuses
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays may reduce sinus inflammation and irritation
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for temporary symptom relief
• Antibiotics for chronic sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection

⚠️Consult with your care provider or a pharmacist before starting any new medication.

🏡Home remedies and lifestyle changes

• Steam inhalation can help loosen mucus buildup and soothe irritated sinus tissues.
• Staying well-hydrated can potentially support sinus health, and eating a balanced diet of nutritious foods can support immune health.
• Controlling indoor humidity can help maintain indoor air quality and create a more comfortable environment for the sinuses.

⚠️While home remedies and lifestyle changes can potentially offer temporary relief, seek professional medical help if symptoms persist.

🩺In-office treatment options

For patients whose symptoms don’t respond well to home remedies or medications alone, Tampa Bay Breathe Free offers advanced, in-office, and minimally invasive treatment options:

• Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) or allergy drops introduce small amounts of allergens into the body, which may help some patients build tolerance to their allergens over time. However, SLIT is not FDA-approved for all types of allergies in the US, so schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss efficacy for off-label use.
• Balloon sinuplasty uses a small balloon catheter to open blocked sinus passages. This can encourage proper mucus flow and drainage.
• Septoplasty may be the recommended option if your doctor determines that a deviated septum is contributing to chronic sinus infections. What the procedure does is straighten the nasal septum, which can reduce obstruction and improve airflow.

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Sinus Care at Tampa Bay Breathe Free

Here at Tampa Bay Breathe Free, we help patients across the Tampa Bay area evaluate possible contributing factors to persistent sinus issues and develop individualized care plans based on test results and personal health goals.

If you’re looking for a Tampa Bay ENT care provider in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the surrounding areas of Hillsborough and Pinellas County, schedule an appointment with our team today.