Leading Flint, MI Doctor Discusses Sinus Infections, Treatments

Dr. Mehmet Agabigum, offers ear, nose, and throat issues, including sinus infection treatment, in Flint, MI. As a highly experienced and rated Otorhinolaryngologist with over 40 years of experience in ENT healthcare, he is knowledgeable in treating this common condition. With his help, you can find relief.

What is a Sinus Infection?

Your sinuses produce mucus, keeping them healthy and moist. This function prevents bacteria and pollutants from entering the nose and infecting the body. All is good until you develop sinus infections.

According to Dr. Agabigum, your Flint, MI, ENT, when you develop sinus problems, the tissue lining the sinuses gets swollen. This allows fluid to build up in the cavity, causing it to get clogged with mucus. You can develop this infection from allergies, sinusitis, nasal blockage, deviated septum, and more.

With a sinus infection, you may develop a fever, facial pressure and pain, runny eyes and nose, a congested, stuffy nose, and a headache. Sinus infections, while not life-threatening, are pesky and painful. 

Types of Sinus Infections and Their Common Treatments

Acute and chronic sinusitis are the two types of infection and present the same symptoms. The difference between these two types is the length of time they last. Typically, a sinus infection lasts three to eight weeks. However, chronic sinus infections last longer than eight weeks.

If you visit Dr. Agabigum with sinus infection symptoms, we first determine if bacteria, viruses, or fungi are causing your sinus infection. Many paitnets have viral illness that cuase their sinus infections. An acute viral sinus infection lasts about four weeks and causes nose congestion, runny nose, facial pain and pressure, and a lack of sense of smell. This type does not resolve with antibiotics. Other types of sinus infections can be treated with medication.

Medical research found that if you suffer from moderate to severe asthma, you are at high risk for chronic sinus infections. If you experience at least three or more infections per year, we consider you to have recurrent acute sinusitis.

Treatment Depends on the Cause

 Treating your sinus infection depends on its cause. Some common treatments include:

• Over-the-counter cold and allergy medications
• Decongestants
• Nasal saline rinses
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Antibiotics
• Prescription intranasal steroid sprays
• Topical antihistamine sprays
• Oral medications
• Antigonists (montelukast)
• Surgery (polys, fungal infections)
• Alternatives (acupressure, acupuncture, facial massage)

Get Help for Your Ailing Sinuses Today

Call Dr. Agabigum today at his office in Flint, MI, at 810-732-4250 to discuss sinus infection treatment. Kick your pesky infection to the curb for good. We can help you relieve your sinus problems and increase your quality of life.