Many adults deal with a sinus infection from time to time. But when sinus infections keep coming back, last for weeks, or do not fully improve with standard treatment, there may be an underlying problem that needs a closer look. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pressure, thick drainage, reduced sense of smell, cough, fatigue, headaches, and symptoms that return soon after antibiotics or steroids are stopped.
Recurrent or refractory sinus infections can have several causes, including chronic inflammation, blocked sinus drainage pathways, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, allergies, or immune system issues. A careful evaluation may include a nasal exam, nasal endoscopy, allergy testing, or a sinus CT scan.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem. Options may include saline rinses, nasal steroid sprays, antibiotics when appropriate, environmental allergen control, annual flu vaccination, allergy treatment, allergy drop therapy, balloon sinuplasty, or endoscopic sinus surgery. Some patients also benefit from soothing nasal rinse additives, such as mentholated rinses like Alkalol, when used appropriately.
Balloon sinuplasty may help open narrowed sinus drainage pathways in selected patients, while sinus surgery may be recommended for more severe or complex disease. Drs. Rogers, Golde, Wadsworth, and Bomeli evaluate recurrent sinus infections with the goal of identifying the cause and choosing a treatment plan that fits the patient’s symptoms, anatomy, and long-term health.