Many reasons for sinus woes

Q: What is causing that congestion in my nose?

A: It’s the middle of winter in Central Texas and you have persistent nasal congestion. You must have the dreaded Cedar allergies … Or maybe you have a viral upper respiratory infection … Or maybe you have a sinus infection … Or maybe you have undiagnosed chronic sinusitis. How do we know what to treat?

Allergies will cause patients with sensitivity to have increased clear nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy/ watery eyes. Typically there will be no fever. Most patients will find relief by taking an

over-the-counter antihistamine and nasal steroid.

The most common time to catch a cold is also this time of year. A viral upper respiratory infection presents with nasal congestion, sinus pressure, mild fatigue, cough and possible fever. The nasal congestion typically remains clear. Treatment includes NSAIDs, decongestants, expectorants, and overthe-counter cough medications.

Some patients develop a sinus infection. Typically this will produce more copious colored nasal discharge. Facial fullness and fatigue can be significant. These patients are best treated with antibiotic.

Finally, some patients may note issues with any of the above diagnoses, but never seem to get complete resolution of symptoms between episodes. Unfortunately some patients will continue to have problems and benefit from simple sinus interventions such as balloon Sinuplasty, a simple clinic procedure.

An otolaryngologist has the tools to make a definitive diagnosis and help you toward a permanent resolution.