Housatonic Valley News

• Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses.
• Close to 37 million Americans have to deal with sinus inflammation each year.
• Seeking treatment from an ENT specialist can help minimize the many health conditions that cause inflammation.

Sinusitis refers to anything that might cause inflammation in the sinuses. Dr. Robert Weiss of CT ENT said ENT offices have tools and devices to check for inflammation so a patient can be treated properly.

"An endoscope is a little mini telescope that we can peer into the nose in the sinus. We can see if there's inflammation there; we can see if it's blocked; we can see if there's an infection; we can see if there's a polyp, which is a benign growth. But CAT scan imaging is the gold standard for sinus imaging and can help us decide the appropriate steps," Dr. Weiss told Housatonic Valley News. "We're fortunate to have an imaging device right in our office that's a point of care, and we can incorporate it into the consultation, so it makes the whole process very easy for the patient."

Nasal inflammation, also referred to as sinusitis, involves the inflammation or swelling of the sinus lining, according to the American Sinus Institute. This condition can obstruct air passages, leading to increased mucus production and the potential for infection. It's a relatively common issue, often triggered by something as common as the common cold. Additionally, allergic rhinitis, which involves swelling of the nasal lining, can contribute to nasal inflammation. The Institute points out that another possible cause is a deviated septum or a structural shift within the nasal cavity, which can also initiate this condition.

According to the American Sinus Institute, approximately 37 million Americans experience at least one episode of acute nasal inflammation every year. Individuals with factors such as obstructed drainage ducts, nasal polyps, narrow drainage passages, swelling of the nasal mucous membranes, or compromised immune systems due to medications may face an elevated risk of developing this condition. Additionally, children exposed to second-hand smoke could also have a higher likelihood of experiencing such episodes.

Physical symptoms of chronic sinusitis can include nasal inflammation, a runny nose, postnasal drainage, congestion, pain or swelling in the face, headaches, loss of smell and taste, a sore threat, bad breath, or fatigue, according to Mayo Clinic.

If left untreated, sinusitis can cause an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, neurological disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes, according to Next Avenue. That's why it's important to consider treatment from an ENT specialist to get your inflammation managed before it can lead to other health complications.