Our Services ~ Nose

Sinuses are the air-filled cavities inside the facial bones that open into the nasal cavity. Sinusitis is the inflammation of the mucous membranes of one or more of the sinuses.

Acute Sinusitis is common and is often associated with a viral or bacterial upper respiratory infection that spreads to the sinuses. When the sinus opening becomes blocked, the cavities fill with fluid producing deep pain and pressure. The pain is often made worse by bending, straining sneezing or coughing. Other symptoms of acute sinusitis are fever, fatigue and postnasal drainage.

Treatment of acute sinusitis is designed to prevent complications and to keep the acute process from becoming chronic. Chronic Sinusitis is a sinus problem that usually follows a single attack or repeated attacks of acute sinusitis. Postnasal or nasal drainage, nasal congestion with pressure, and nasal polyps are the most common symptoms.

Treatment for sinusitis typically consists of oral antibiotics, decongestants and analgesics. Bedrest, local heat and increased fluids are also helpful in controlling the systemic symptoms.

However, surgery is sometimes the only solution. A wide variety of surgical procedures are available. The choice of surgical procedure will depend on the particular sinus involved, previous therapy and the patient's general state of health.
Physicians at Ear, Nose, and Throat Consultants of East Tennessee are experienced in both the conventional surgical approaches to the sinuses and the most modern, state-of-the-art, endoscopic functional procedures.

If you suspect that you have a problem with your sinuses, caution is the rule of thumb, and we encourage you to schedule an appointment so to begin appropriate treatment.