Sinusitis
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Sydney Crackower, M.D.
Family Practice located in Lafayette, LA
Do you feel as though the cough from your cold has been lingering too long? Are you feeling congested or have a fever? You may have sinusitis. Sydney Crackower, MD in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a family medicine physician who can provide treatment so you get relief from your sinusitis. Call the office today, or schedule an appointment using the online booking tool. Same-day appointments are available.
Sinusitis Q & A
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis, also referred to as a sinus infection, is inflammation that occurs in your sinus cavity. Your sinuses are the open spaces under your eyes and beside your nose that produce mucus. If your nose is plugged up, the mucus builds up in your sinus cavity and causes pain and congestion, and may sometimes lead to a bacterial infection.
There are different types of sinusitis, including:
- Acute sinusitis: lasts 4 weeks or less
- Subacute sinusitis: lasts 4 to 12 weeks
- Chronic sinusitis: lasts 12 weeks or longer, sometimes even years
- Recurrent sinusitis: sinusitis attacks that occur several times a year
The common cold is often the cause of acute sinusitis. Allergies, a structural issue with your nose such as a deviated septum, or another medical condition can also lead to acute or chronic sinusitis.
Sinusitis can affect both children and adults.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
Your sinusitis symptoms may vary, both in type and severity. Common symptoms include:
- Head or tooth pain
- Sinus drainage
- Post-nasal drip
- Cough or congestion
- Fever
- Weakness
- Bad breath
If you’re feeling these symptoms, come to the office for an evaluation. Dr. Crackower conducts a thorough examination to see if your symptoms are due to sinusitis, and order diagnostic imaging tests to help confirm a diagnosis. He then prescribes treatment to help relieve your symptoms.
How is sinusitis treated?
Treatment for your sinusitis depends on the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms are mild and you don’t have an infection, Dr. Crackower may recommend a decongestant and a saline solution to help clear out your sinus passages.
If you have an infection, Dr. Crackower prescribes antibiotics to clear it up and help you feel better. You should take the antibiotics as prescribed, even after you start feeling better, to prevent a recurrence of your sinusitis.
Warm compresses to the face and a humidifier may also help relieve some of your symptoms.
If you have chronic sinusitis, Dr. Crackower develops a treatment plan to help you better manage the underlying cause to prevent the sinus discomfort.
For management of your sinusitis, call Dr. Crackower or schedule an appointment online. Same-day appointments are available.
