Sinus and nasal disorders
We diagnose and treat many nasal and sinus ailments
At Excel ENT, our doctors can diagnose and treat your nasal and sinus ailments, from a stuffy or runny nose to obstructions or nosebleeds. Because the nasal passages, sinus cavities, ears and throat are connected, symptoms can be confusing, so our specialists will perform a thorough exam to find the cause of your symptoms.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is characterized by the feeling of having a constant cold or allergy symptoms that won’t go away. When the condition becomes chronic, patients report a stuffy nose and drainage often accompanied by headache, severe pain and pressure in the face, and chronic fatigue.
Severe sinusitis that does not respond to medication may be treated with balloon sinuplasty, a non-surgical procedure that can unclog sinuses by widening the opening. Balloon sinuplasty can be done in our office under local anesthesia. In instances of more serious conditions, our doctors can advise if surgery would be necessary.
Obstructions/Polyps
Inflammation of the tissue in the sinuses and nasal passages can develop into polyps, obstructing the nasal passages and causing congestion, interfering with smell and taste, and even leading to pressure and breathing problems. While it is unclear why polyps develop, they often can be treated with nasal sprays containing steroids that help shrink the swollen tissues.
When polyps are larger or have developed in clusters, it may be necessary to remove them surgically. Endoscopic sinus surgery removes the abnormal tissue and allows the lining of the sinuses and nasal passages to heal. This is relatively simple outpatient surgery.
Post-nasal drip
The production of mucus in your nose and throat is a normal process by which these areas are kept moist, but when mucus becomes thick and accumulates in these passages it creates an uncomfortable dripping sensation, throat irritation and cough. Post-nasal drip can be causes by colds, allergies, cold temperatures, even spicy food. In more severe cases of chronic rhinitis, symptoms can escalate to an itchy, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, sore throat, and in some instances, asthma and chronic sinusitis.
The key to treating post-nasal drip is identifying the cause. In cases of allergy or cold, throat lozenges and antihistamines are effective. Your doctor also will check for infection in the throat or sinuses and prescribe antibiotics if necessary.
Often using a humidifier and increasing fluids can make a big difference in thinning mucus. In some cases, your doctor may recommend nasal irrigation or fluid pills, especially for older patients.
Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds can occur at any age and for a variety of reasons, most of which are not serious and require no attention from a doctor. The vast majority originate in the anterior or forward part of the nasal cavity. A posterior nosebleed can be more serious, involving larger blood vessels, but they tend to be much less common.
The occasional nosebleed is generally not cause for concern. Often the cause is not clear, but common reasons for nosebleeds include:
- Injury to the nose
- Dry nasal membranes due to cold air
- Irritation from allergies
- Nose picking
- Medications, such as blood thinners
- Inhaled chemical irritants
Those who have experienced traumatic injury to the nose or face, or who suffer from high blood pressure, a blood disorder such as hemophilia, or who are undergoing cancer treatment should see a doctor immediately for a nosebleed.
For minor nosebleeds, pinching the nostrils for about 10 minutes and keeping the head tipped forward tends to be the most effective treatment. Doctors recommend avoiding leaning the head back and the use of ice, as these can potentially make the bleeding worse.
For more serious problems, cauterizing the affected blood vessel may stop the bleeding and promote healing. For posterior nosebleeds, hospitalization and packing using a balloon or sponge may be necessary. If medications are causing your nosebleeds, a change may be recommended.