This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

What is a sinus infection?

Sinus infections occur when the sinus cavities become inflamed, often from viral, bacterial, or allergic causes. Acute sinusitis typically lasts up to four weeks, while subacute or chronic forms persist longer and may be associated with ongoing nasal obstruction or recurrent infections. Symptoms can overlap with common colds and allergies, so accurate assessment of duration, severity, and associated findings (such as fever or purulent nasal discharge) helps clinicians determine whether targeted treatment is needed.

What medical treatments are commonly used?

Initial medical management emphasizes symptom control and addressing underlying causes. Saline nasal irrigation, intranasal corticosteroid sprays, oral decongestants for short-term use, and antihistamines (if allergies contribute) are typical interventions. Antibiotics are prescribed selectively when bacterial infection is suspected based on clinical criteria or duration. For chronic or recurrent cases, a physician may recommend a longer course of topical steroids, short courses of oral steroids, or referral to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist for further evaluation including imaging or endoscopy.

When is balloon sinuplasty considered?

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to dilate blocked sinus ostia (the small openings that drain the sinuses) without removing bone or large amounts of tissue. It’s usually considered for patients with chronic sinusitis who have not responded adequately to medical therapy and have specific anatomic blockage of drainage pathways. The procedure can be performed in an office setting or ambulatory surgical center and is associated with less tissue disruption compared with traditional surgery. Candidate selection is important and determined by clinical assessment and often sinus imaging.

How does sinus surgery differ?

Sinus surgery typically refers to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and involves removing obstructive tissue, opening sinus drainage pathways, and correcting anatomic contributors to chronic disease. Surgery is generally recommended when medical therapy and less invasive procedures like balloon dilatation fail, or when there are complications such as persistent infections, nasal polyps, or structural problems. Compared with balloon sinuplasty, traditional surgery may address a wider range of anatomic issues but can involve longer recovery and more postoperative care.

What is involved in a sinus procedure?

Preoperative evaluation often includes a clinical exam, nasal endoscopy, and CT imaging to map anatomy and identify disease extent. For balloon sinuplasty, a catheter-mounted balloon is guided into the blocked sinus opening and inflated to widen the passage; minimal or no tissue is removed. For FESS, instruments are used to remove diseased tissue and improve ventilation. Procedures may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia depending on complexity and patient preference. Postprocedural care commonly involves saline irrigations, topical steroid sprays, and follow-up endoscopy to monitor healing.

Managing symptoms, recovery, and local services

Recovery timelines vary: many patients undergoing balloon procedures return to normal activities within a few days, while endoscopic surgery may require one to two weeks before resuming routine tasks. Nasal packing is less common now, but expect some nasal drainage, mild discomfort, and temporary bleeding. Follow-up with your ENT guides wound care and medication adjustments. If you’re exploring options, search for local services or specialist clinics in your area and verify clinician credentials and experience. Insurance coverage and referral requirements can affect access and scheduling.

Conclusion

Effective sinus infection treatment begins with a clear diagnosis and graded approach: conservative medical measures first, then consideration of minimally invasive options like balloon sinuplasty, and surgical intervention for refractory or complicated cases. Discuss the risks, expected benefits, and recovery details with a qualified ENT specialist to determine the most appropriate plan for your situation.