Sinusitis

We Provide Exceptional Chronic Sinusitis and Asthma Care

Sinus issues can be frustrating, painful, and sometimes debilitating. If you’ve been battling sinusitis symptoms, come to the Allergy & Asthma Associates of Michigan for help. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating sinusitis to help our patients breathe easier and live healthier lives. Whether you have a one-time sinus infection or chronic sinusitis intertwined with asthma symptoms, you can find relief at our Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, and Livonia clinics.

What Are Sinuses?

Your sinuses are hollow spaces inside your skull around your nose and eyes. They play an important role in producing mucus that keeps your nasal passages moist and protected. Healthy sinuses are unobstructed and free of infections. Problems begin when these air-filled spaces become inflamed or blocked because of infections, allergies, or other issues.

Who Can Get Sinusitis?

Sinusitis can affect anyone, although some groups of people may be more prone to infections or chronic issues. Individuals with allergies, asthma, or a history of nasal polyps or weakened immune systems are at a greater risk of developing sinus problems. Young children and older adults are also common sinusitis sufferers. Furthermore, they may experience a more difficult recovery due to other health factors.

Signs and Symptoms of Sinusitis

Understanding sinusitis symptoms can help you determine when to seek medical treatment. The following signs and symptoms may indicate sinusitis rather than a seasonal cold or allergy episode:

Nasal Congestion – This is a stuffy feeling that makes breathing difficult.
Facial Pain or Pressure – Discomfort around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks could be a sign of sinusitis.
Headaches – A dull ache behind the forehead often accompanies sinusitis.
Postnasal Drip – This is excess mucus dripping down the back of your throat.
Reduced Sense of Taste or Smell – Seek help if you have difficulty detecting scents or flavors.
Coughing – This symptom may worsen at night due to postnasal drip.
Worsening of Asthma Symptoms – Asthma symptoms often get worse with chronic sinusitis.

What Causes Sinusitis?

Sinusitis results from swelling of the sinuses, leading to blockages or infections. Identifying the cause of your sinusitis will help guide the treatment and lead to lasting relief. Common sinusitis causes include:

Viral, Bacterial, or Fungal Infection – Infections can block mucus drainage and create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.
Allergies – Allergic reactions may trigger inflammation, contributing to a sinus blockage.
Structural Abnormalities – Issues like a deviated septum or nasal polyps can interfere with proper drainage.
Environmental Factors – Air pollution, smoking, and irritants like chemical fumes can inflame the sinuses.
Immunodeficiency – Recurrent sinusitis can be caused from a weakened immune system.

Types of Sinusitis

Sinusitis is grouped into different types based on its duration and frequency. Knowing the stages of a sinus infection can clarify what type you may be experiencing.

Acute Sinusitis – Lasts less than four weeks and is often caused by a cold or viral infection
Subacute Sinusitis – Can persist for four to 12 weeks, often occurring after initial treatment doesn’t fully resolve acute sinusitis
Chronic Sinusitis – Lasts more than 12 weeks and may require ongoing treatment, especially if linked to asthma or allergies
Recurrent Sinusitis – Happens multiple times throughout the year, often due to underlying conditions or immune responses

Relationship Between Sinusitis and Asthma

Sinusitis and asthma are closely linked, and this connection can complicate both conditions. Chronic sinusitis often worsens asthma symptoms, leading to more frequent asthma attacks or difficulty managing breathing. Similarly, asthma-related inflammation can create an environment where sinus infections are more likely to develop.

Treating sinusitis and asthma together is crucial for long-term relief. The Allergy & Asthma Associates of Michigan specialize in managing this relationship to help patients feel their best.

Our Sinusitis Treatment Options

We offer tailored sinusitis treatments to meet our patients’ specific needs. Depending on the severity and type of sinusitis, your treatment plan may include:

Medications – Decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal sprays can reduce inflammation and clear blockages.
Antibiotics – We recommend these for bacterial sinus infections that don’t resolve on their own.
Allergy Management – Our team can address underlying allergies to prevent future sinus issues.
Advanced Therapies – We may suggest saline rinses, corticosteroids, antibody replacement therapy, or biologic therapy, inclusive of Dupixent, Nucala, and Xolair for nasal polyposis. We may also suggest advanced imaging modalities to further understand why a patient’s symptoms are occurring.

Why You Should Choose the Allergy & Asthma Associates of Michigan

Choosing the right care provider is critical when managing sinusitis and related concerns. Patients in Sterling Heights, Livonia, and Royal Oak choose us because of our:

Expertise – Our team has extensive experience with sinusitis care and its connections to other health concerns like asthma and allergies.
Innovative Treatments – We use the latest methods to address symptoms and deliver long-term results.
Patient-Centered Care – We prioritize understanding your needs and tailoring treatments to your lifestyle and symptoms.

Contact Our Specialists Today

Living with sinusitis doesn’t have to be your reality. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or chronic sinusitis complicated by asthma, the Allergy & Asthma Associates of Michigan can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.