The sinuses are hollow areas within the upper face that generate mucus to help lubricate the inside of the nose and protect it from foreign invaders. When fluids accumulate in the sinuses, it can be a breeding ground for germs, eventually leading to an infection.
Fluid build-up in the sinuses can lead to painful pressure in the forehead, around the eyes, and in the nose and can also result in a cough or nasal congestion and drainage. Our ENT specialists at Florida ENT Associates will diagnose your sinus infection and provide a personalized treatment plan to resolve your concerns.
Options for Treating a Sinus Infection
While many patients will recover on their own from a sinus infection, some will require medical intervention. For those suffering from chronic sinus issues that last 3 months or more, it’s a good idea to see your ENT doctor and address the condition. We offer the following treatment options:
Balloon Sinuplasty
This surgical procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can help unblock sinuses that have filled with fluids. There are no incisions or excision required. Rather, your doctor will insert a deflated balloon into the nasal cavity that will be gradually filled with air, widening the airways so you can breathe better. Once the passageways are sufficiently enlarged, the balloon is removed.
When sinusitis is chronic, surgery can be performed to reduce the likelihood of infections. With the patient under general anesthesia, a small incision is made inside the nose. An endoscope, or small tubular camera, is then used to provide detailed insight into the inner structures of the nose. The appropriate surgical tools help remove blockages such as polyps or growths and restore optimal breathing.
Sinus infections can be caused by either bacteria or viruses. While most sinus infections go away on their own and do not require a doctor’s visit, if the condition is chronic and leads to more severe symptoms, including fever, it’s mandatory that you see an ENT professional.
Living with a chronic sinus infection can negatively impact your lifestyle, getting in the way of your work and social participation. At Florida ENT Associates, we can help relieve your symptoms and root out the problem at its core so you can get back to thriving rather than just enduring discomfort.
Who Typically Gets Sinus Infections?
Sinus infections are common in patients of all ages and backgrounds. Risk factors include:
Recently coming down with a cold or the flu
Experiencing seasonal or environmental allergies
Structural anomalies in the nose
Smoking
Exposure to second-hand smoke
Symptoms of Sinus Infections
Pressure in the eyes, nose, forehead, and upper face
A runny nose
Post-nasal drip
Headaches
Coughing
Sore, achy throat
About Florida ENT Associates
Florida ENT Associates offers the patients of Lake Wales, Winter Haven, Haines City, Sebring, and Clermont a haven for state-of-the-art ENT services geared towards their unique needs and goals. Our practice is founded on the following core principles:
Personalized Treatment
We approach each patient as a unique individual rather than just another number. Your treatment plan is carefully curated based on personalized testing and in-depth diagnostic review.
Top-rated Physician Network
Our team of skilled, knowledgeable ENT specialists offers over 300 years of combined expertise with over a million patients successfully treated. Our practice atmosphere of cooperation and collaboration means that you receive exponential healing from a wide range of disciplines.
Continuity of Care
We continue to extend our care long after you leave the office. We follow up with you to ensure you are happy with your results and that you are enjoying a higher quality of life than before your procedure.
Community Investment
We are passionate about giving back and regularly participate in local programs that provide resources, medicine, food, and essential items to those who are most in need.
FAQ
Can antibiotics help treat sinus infections?
This will depend on the type of infection and its severity. Our doctors will assess your condition during your private consultation.
My cold symptoms won’t go away. Do I have a sinus infection?
Possibly. One of the leading factors in contracting a sinus infection is having recently had a cold.
With 14 convenient locations across Florida, we’re never far away.
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