Sinusitis

Patients with frequent, uncontrolled nasal allergy (or allergic rhinitis) symptoms often develop infections in their sinuses due to the buildup of mucus in the sinus cavities. Normal sinuses have a thin layer of mucus that traps dust, germs and other particles in the air. We have tiny hair-like projections in the sinuses that gently sweep the mucus towards openings in the back of your throat. With a sinus infection, the flow of mucus from the sinuses to the back of the throat can become obstructed and swelling of the nasal tissue traps the mucus in the sinuses. These infections can become chronic in some patients and can cause persistent, frustrating symptoms.

Testing and Treatment

Allergies can play a role in chronic sinus infections since the nasal and sinus passages become swollen, congested and inflamed in an attempt to flush out the particles that trigger allergies. Various medications such as antibiotics can be used as well as nasal saline washes to help clear thickened secretions from the nasal passages. Allergy testing with Dr. Rajan can help you find out what you are allergic to and what is triggering your recurrent sinus infections.