Dr. Cem Hızlı

Sinusitis is inflammation of the tissue lining the air spaces around the nose. When complaints last longer than twelve weeks, chronic sinusitis is mentioned. Nasal congestion, postnasal drip, feeling of pressure on the face and decreased smell are common symptoms.

In the evaluation, the duration and course of the complaints are questioned. The inside of the nose is examined endoscopically. Polyp, septum curvature or discharge are looked for. When necessary, aeration of the sinuses is evaluated with tomography.

Underlying factors are also investigated: allergies, adenoids, dental inflammations and immune problems may persist. Treatment is planned by considering these reasons. Symptom-oriented approaches alone do not produce permanent results.

Nasal congestion is not a symptom of a single disease. Different reasons lead to similar complaints. The most common ones include curvature of the middle chamber of the nose, allergic rhinitis, nasal concha enlargement, polyps, adenoids and chronic sinusitis.

To differentiate, questions are asked whether the blockage is unilateral or bilateral, whether it changes with the season, the nature of the discharge and the sense of smell. Intranasal endoscopic examination forms the basis of this distinction.

Treatment varies depending on the cause. While drug treatment and protection from triggers are prominent in allergy-related conditions, surgery may be on the agenda if there is a structural curvature. More than one cause may be present in a person. The plan is established by looking at the whole, not a single finding.

The first approach to sinusitis is usually medication. Intranasal corticosteroid sprays, saline irrigation and antibiotics are used when necessary. If there is an allergy, treatment for it is added. Regular use is required for a certain period of time to see the effect of this approach.

Surgery is considered in cases where there is no adequate response to drug treatment, frequently relapses, or is accompanied by a structural obstacle. With endoscopic methods, the sinus mouths are ventilated and the discharge is discharged.

Surgery alone is not a permanent solution. After the surgery, nose care, washing and medication treatment are continued when necessary. If there is a factor such as allergy, long-term monitoring is planned.