Common Sinus Problems
Recognizing what’s actually wrong is the first step to relief. Below are the conditions Dr. Hurbis sees and treats most often at the Oregon Sinus Wellness office in Coos Bay.
Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common medical problems in the United States. Many allergies are seasonal, while others can be year-round, and both types can cause major sinus problems.
Sinus Infections / Sinusitis
"Sinusitis is a common inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, the cavities that produce the mucus necessary for the nasal passages to work effectively." — Medical News Today.
Septal Deviation
A deviated septum "occurs when the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side. In many people, the nasal septum is displaced, or deviated, making one nasal passage smaller." — Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms include nasal blockage, noisy breathing during sleep, and a preference for sleeping on a particular side.
Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches "are headaches that may feel like an infection in the sinuses (sinusitis). You may feel pressure around your eyes, cheeks, and forehead. Perhaps your head throbs." — Mayo Clinic.
Pain, pressure, and fullness in your cheeks, brow, or forehead — worsening if you bend forward or lie down.
Sinus Polyps
Nasal polyps "are soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. They hang down like teardrops or grapes. They result from chronic inflammation due to asthma, recurring infection, allergies, drug sensitivity or certain immune disorders." — Mayo Clinic.
Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy
Turbinates are bony structures inside your nose covered by mucous membranes. They are essential to respiration, and their main role is to filter and humidify the air that is inhaled through your nose.
Chronic nasal obstruction (stuffy nose) is often caused by enlargement (hypertrophy) of the inferior turbinate. Congested nasal obstruction can impair normal breathing, forcing patients to breathe through the mouth and often affects their daily activities. Common irritants include cigarette or cigar smoke and other environmental factors.
Think one of these is yours?
An appointment with Dr. Hurbis can confirm the diagnosis and lay out your options.