Sinus Infection Specialist
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Premier Allergy Asthma & Immunology, PLLC
Kiranjit K. Khalsa, MD, MPH
Allergy & Immunology Practice serving Scottsdale, Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding areas
Sinus infections may come and go with a cold or the flu, but they can also turn into an ongoing problem. When your symptoms get severe, don't improve, or keep returning, it's time to seek treatment from Kiranjit Khalsa, MD, MPH, at Premier Allergy Asthma & Immunology, PLLC. Sinus infections often need Dr. Khalsa's expertise as they develop from asthma, allergies, and immune deficiencies. To schedule an appointment, call the office in Scottsdale, Arizona, or use the online booking feature today.
Sinus Infection Q&A
What causes a sinus infection?
Your sinuses are hollow cavities in the facial bones along both sides of your nose. Each sinus is lined with membranes that produce mucus. The mucus normally leaves the sinus and flows into your nose.
When an infection develops, the mucus-producing tissues become inflamed. Then the inflamed tissues block the opening, trapping mucus inside the sinus. The buildup of mucus causes pressure and pain and also creates an environment that's perfect for a bacterial infection.
Most sinus infections begin with a virus, usually the same virus that causes a cold or the flu. However, allergies like hay fever, asthma, and immune deficiencies make you highly susceptible to chronic sinus infections.
Though not as common, some sinus infections occur because of a structural problem in your nose. For example, nasal polyps and a deviated septum may lead to a sinus infection.
What symptoms does a sinus infection cause?
When you have a sinus infection, you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Stuffy, congested nose
- Thick, discolored nasal discharge
- Pain or pressure around your sinuses
- Tenderness in your face and teeth
- Runny nose
- Sinus headaches
- Ear pressure
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Cough
Most sinus infections clear up in a few weeks. Sometimes, the viral infection heals but the tissues inside your sinus remain inflamed. Or you could develop a bacterial infection inside the sinus. When your symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, you have chronic sinusitis.
How is a sinus infection treated?
Dr. Khalsa focuses on relieving your symptoms while the viral infection runs its course. She may recommend over-the-counter treatments or prescribe medicated nasal sprays containing antihistamines, decongestants, or steroids. It also helps to use a saline nasal spray that eases congestion.
If you have frequent or recurrent sinus infections, Dr. Khalsa does additional testing to verify or rule out allergies, asthma, or an immune deficiency. She runs a blood test for immune deficiencies, a skin prick allergy test, and lung function tests for asthma. The results of your tests determine the type of treatment you need to prevent future sinus infections.
In the event a nasal obstruction causes your sinus infection, you may need medication or a minimally invasive procedure to remove the problem or reopen your blocked sinus.
Don't wait to get relief from a sinus infection. Call Premier Allergy Asthma & Immunology, PLLC, or book an appointment online today.
