Sinus Infection Specialist: Do You Really Need One? This Will Help You Decide!
Once or twice yearly, a person may suffer from sinus infections, sometimes referred to as upper respiratory conditions. Sinusitis is considered one of the most common chronic medical conditions among adults in the United States, with some of the symptoms consisting of:
- Stuffy nose
- Facial pain
- Fever
- Post nasal drip
- Discolored drainage
- Headache
Many of these sinus infections can be eliminated with over-the-counter medication as long as they are not recurrent and the symptoms are minimal. However, efficient treatment of some sinus conditions requires a prescription from a qualified primary care provider.
The following are reasons why you should see a sinus specialist for your chronic conditions:
1. If Your Symptoms Never Fully go Away
Typically, most sinus episodes take 14 days to resolve, and a majority of them last a short while before you resume your usual self. However, a sinus infection does not fully disappear even with the help of antibiotics, and persistent sinus infections could be a sign of developing chronic sinusitis, which is long-term and may even smolder for years.
Cases of chronic sinusitis require the attention of a sinus infection specialist, and a quick visit to the nearest sinus infection center is the first step towards getting better.
2. If You Experience Severe Sinus Symptoms
Being sick is not only frustrating but also uncomfortable and irritating; thus, your sick days qualify to be some of the most miserable. Sinus symptoms that disappear after a few days usually become severe and could sometimes be life-threatening.
It could be a red flag if you frequently need time off work, as normal sinus symptoms should not deter you from continuing your daily activities. Another indication that you urgently need help is when you must make numerous emergency care visits.
3. If Your Symptoms Last for the Whole Year
Getting sick from time to time throughout the year is considered normal. Sinus symptoms that appear for the better part of the year are a recipe for trouble; however, experiencing sinus infections more than four times a year is not normal, and you could be forced to see a chronic sinusitis infection specialist for further medical attention.
The situation becomes dire when you always have to incorporate antibiotics every time you experience these infections. Although antibiotics are effective and a safe means to curb infections, frequent use is a recipe for trouble. This is because different antibiotics have different side effects that may not be favorable to the body.
Sinus symptoms are prone to evolve over time and should not be ignored so that the condition can be controlled in its early stages. Different treatment options are available for sinus infections, all of which are incorporated depending on the patient’s concerns and needs. These include:
- Nasal sprays
- Surgery
- Antibiotics
- Irrigations
If you are experiencing sinus infection symptoms and are in need of a sinus specialist, contact Southeastern Ear, Nose, and Throat Sinus Infection Center to get a diagnosis and interact with some of the best medical providers.