The stuffiness, headache, and drainage associated with a cold are annoying yet manageable symptoms because they're all temporary. However, what happens when these symptoms linger long after your cold has cleared up? This is known as sinusitis, and, fortunately, here at West Coast Ear, Nose and Throat in Camarillo, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Oxnard, CA, our team of physicians have extensive experience in helping patients treating it. Read on to learn how!

 

Non-surgical sinus treatments

Before suggesting surgery, most otolaryngologists will attempt to treat their patients' chronic sinus issues with less invasive methods first. Allergy tests can determine if you're allergic to anything and various medications, both oral and nasal, may be necessary. If your sinusitis is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, an ENT from one of our offices in Camarillo, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Oxnard, can prescribe the appropriate medication to clear up the problem. Oral steroids may also help reduce inflammation to promote better breathing.

 

Reasons for sinus surgery

If the above methods of managing sinusitis fail to bring you relief, it may be necessary to receive sinus surgery from one of our offices in Camarillo, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Oxnard. People who need surgical treatment on their sinuses typically have one of the following conditions:

• A deviated septum. This is a common condition in which the cartilage that divides your nose down the middle is pushed further to one side. While very few people have nasal passages that are the same on both sides, some septums can be so uneven that one side is obstructed, preventing proper drainage and leading to recurrent sinus infections.
• Nasal polyps. These soft, painless growths can line the sinuses, making breathing difficult and causing recurrent sinus infections. Their cause is often unknown, although they can be linked to inflammation from allergies or asthma. Removal of these polyps falls under the umbrella of sinus surgery.

 

Concerned? Give us a call!

If you've been dealing with the above-listed symptoms for longer than a few weeks, it's time to contact West Coast Ear, Nose and Throat to make an appointment with one of our otolaryngology team members. We have locations in Camarillo, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Oxnard, making it convenient for you to receive the help you need!

Dial (805) 484-5929 for Camarillo, (805) 527-7320 for Simi Valley, (805) 379-9646 for Thousand Oaks, and (805) 983-0395 for Oxnard.