Signs You May Need Sinus Surgery

Signs You May Need Sinus Surgery

Could you benefit from sinus surgery? Here’s how to tell.

Nasal blockages, facial pain and pressure, tension headaches…these are all symptoms that manifest when you are dealing with sinus problems. Most people will deal with sinus issues at some point during their lifetime, but what if symptoms are severe or persistent for months? How do you know that it’s time to turn to our Orland Park, IL, otolaryngologist Dr. Brian Farrell for surgery?

You have recurring sinus infections

If you are dealing with chronic sinusitis, symptoms that last more than 12 weeks, or recurring infections (at least three infections in one year) it may be time to consider sinus surgery. Our Orland Park, IL, ENT doctor will first provide you with a variety of non-surgical treatment options; however, if these treatments do not provide relief then you will need to discuss whether surgery is the next step.

You are dealing with nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are little swollen watery sacs that develop and hang off the lining of the nasal cavity. The problem with polyps is that they can sometimes grow so large that they block the nasal passages. This can lead to mucus buildup and severe allergy symptoms. In this case, your ENT doctor may recommend sinus surgery to remove the polyp.

You are dealing with fungal sinusitis

Since most sinus infections are bacterial you may be surprised to discover that your sinus infection is actually due to a fungus. Fungal sinus infections cause the exact same symptoms as a bacterial or viral sinus infection; however, your symptoms may be more severe. If you are dealing with severe sinus infection symptoms it’s a good idea to see your ENT doctor to confirm whether it’s bacterial, viral or fungal. Invasive or chronic fungal sinusitis will typically require surgery.

Your deviated septum causes serious breathing problems

A deviated septum is a rather common structural abnormality in the nose that results when the thin wall that separates the two nostrils leans more to one side or is slightly off-kilter. In some cases, a deviated septum may completely block one of even both of the nostrils, making it difficult to breathe through your nose. If a deviated septum is affecting your breathing, then surgery may be recommended.

Century Ear, Nose and Throat, Head and Neck Surgery provides everything from allergy treatments to sinus surgery to those living in Orland Park, Evergreen Park and New Lenox, IL. If you are dealing with persistent sinus problems schedule an appointment with us by calling (708) 460-0007.


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