Experts have found that approximately 50% of people who have moderate to severe asthma also suffer from chronic sinusitis, according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America (AAFA).
People who have suffered from related symptoms -- including discharge, face swelling, persistent bad breath, headache sensations near the eye area, difficulty breathing and nasal congestion -- for longer than three weeks should seek a specialist to experience some relief.
“Treating sinusitis can have significant financial impact over time when multiple over-the-counter medications, antibiotics, steroids are having to be purchased to manage it," Physician Assistant Diana Ruiloba of Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers told Patient Daily. "Multiple medical visits to get symptoms managed can lead to a significant cost. Sinusitis flare-ups are leading to you having to take days off from work or school, which can be substantial over time.“
The two types of sinusitis are acute sinusitis, manifesting itself through mild symptoms, or chronic sinusitis, which reveals more severe symptoms. The infection causes inflammation on the four sinus pairs located inside the skull, resulting from colds, bacterial infections and asthma, among other causes.
This inflammation may lead to a secondary infection, caused by bacteria in the respiratory tract. The chronic condition commonly occurs three or more times in a year or lasts longer than a 12-week stretch.
Treating sinusitis begins with unblocking all nasal passages. According to Cedars Sinai, balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive remedy used to help open up a patient's airways, allowing them to breathe easier.
The method consists of a small balloon entering the nostril through a guidewire catheter and deflating it to drain the sinus area. It does not require an incision opening, nor the removal of bone and tissue, and can better serve patients who have suffered from sinus challenges and may be effective even for patients with severe cases.
“This is an appropriate intervention for sinuses that are no longer functioning optimally,” Ruiloba said. “Overall, a great procedure to help improve quality of life by giving you an opportunity to breathe your best.”
This potentially chronic condition, affecting 37 million Americans each year, can make it hard to enjoy everyday life. Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers created a quiz to determine if those suffering from sinus or allergy symptoms should see a doctor.
According to the AAFA, some tactics commonly used to reduce sinusitis include avoiding contact with allergens, clearing nasal passages as often as possible and frequent handwashing.
