Stuffy nose, sniffling, difficulty breathing, sinus pressure: sinus issues can cause some annoying and disruptive symptoms. The good news is that there are a plethora of treatment options to help manage your symptoms, ranging from over-the-counter (OTC) options to prescription to medical treatment. Let’s discuss some of the options out there, and when you might need each one.
Over-the-Counter Sinus Treatments
OTC sinus treatments are a great way to mitigate your symptoms. They’re accessible—you can find them at any pharmacy and even some grocery stores—and effective, going to work quickly.
Options
Some of the most common OTC medications out there include:
- Decongestants
- Antihistamines (for allergies)
- Nasal sprays
- Eye drops
What They’re Good For
OTC treatments are perfect for short-term, immediate pain relief. They’re perfect for reducing inflammation that’s causing your congestion or reducing symptoms associated with allergies. But while they alleviate symptoms, they may not address the underlying cause. Additionally, in more severe cases, they may not be strong enough to provide the symptom relief you crave.
Medical Sinus Treatments
If OTC medications aren’t cutting it, then it’s time to visit an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT). They can get you on track with a treatment plan that addresses the underlying condition and provides long-lasting relief.
Options
ENTs provide a number of services. After an examination and diagnosis, they may prescribe stronger medications than OTCs to better treat your needs. Some possible prescription medications include steroid nasal sprays, stronger antihistamines or antibiotics.
Additionally, ENT practice is a surgical specialty; an ENT can perform several surgical procedures to address your issues. Some of these include septoplasty, turbinate reduction or Balloon Sinuplasty.
What They’re Good For
Prescription medications are a perfect solution for chronic issues or conditions that need medical help in order to be resolved, such as chronic sinusitis.
If your sinus issue is structural, such as a deviated septum or an enlarged turbinate, that is when an ENT would consider surgery. For example, Balloon Sinuplasty is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure that addresses chronic congestion or sinusitis. Additionally, septoplasty can help with a deviated septum, and rhinoplasty can help with nasal fractures.
What Treatment Do I Need for My Sinus Issue?
We hope this list has helped shed light on which treatment would work best for your specific sinus issues. If you still have questions about what would work best for you, or if you need a consultation for a medical sinus treatment, contact ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons and set an appointment. We’re here to get you long-lasting relief.