Do you suffer from nasal congestion, frequent bouts of sneezing and facial pain? You may have rhinosinusitis, a condition that is particularly common during allergy season. Bend, OR, ENT Dr. Ryan Gallivan of Northwest Sinus Center offers treatment for numerous conditions that affect the ears, nose, and throat, including rhinosinusitis.

What is rhinosinusitis?

Your sinuses become inflamed and swollen if you have rhinosinusitis. Inflammation triggers excess production of mucus, which leads to congestion and facial pain and pressure. Due to swelling of nasal tissues, it may also be difficult for mucus to drain normally, making you feel even worse.

What causes rhinosinusitis?

Rhinosinusitis can be caused by:

• Allergies: Allergies to pollen, grasses, molds, dust, animal hair, and foods may be responsible for your symptoms. If your symptoms seem to occur at the same time every year, seasonal allergies may be to blame. Allergy symptoms due to dust, mold, animal hair, or foods may occur year-round.
• Environmental Factors: Rhinosinusitis can also be a problem if you've been around strong chemicals, smoke, pollutants, and other irritants.
• Nasal Polyps: Polyps, or small, benign growths that form in your nasal passages, may increase your risk of rhinosinusitis.
• Immune System Disorders: If your immune system doesn't function optimally, whether the problem is caused by a disease or medication, you may be more likely to develop rhinosinusitis.
• Infections: Rhinosinusitis can develop after a viral infection, such as the cold or flu. In some cases, you may develop a bacterial infection after you've had a viral infection. Although antibiotics are needed if you have a bacterial infection, your Bend ENT may recommend waiting to take antibiotics for a week or two, due to concerns about antibiotic resistance.
• Deviated Septum: A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage that separates your nostrils isn't perfectly centered in the middle of your nose or is crooked. You may develop rhinosinusitis if it's difficult for your sinuses to drain because of your deviated septum.

How is rhinosinusitis treated?

Viral rhinosinusitis goes away on its own, although you can take a few steps to increase your comfort until it does. Rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution removes excess mucus, while over-the-counter nasal sprays can decrease inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants or prescription medications may also be helpful. If your symptoms are caused by an underlying issue, your ENT may recommend treating that problem. For example, allergy medication can be helpful if allergies trigger your symptoms, while surgery may be recommended if you have frequent sinus issues due to a large nasal polyp.

If home care doesn't relieve your rhinosinusitis symptoms, schedule a visit with your ENT. Call Dr. Bend, OR, ENT Dr. Ryan Gallivan of Northwest Sinus Center at (855) 746-8700 to schedule an appointment.