SYMPTOMS OF SINUSITIS AND ALLERGY INCLUDE:
- Nasal Congestion
- Facial Discomfort
- Headache
- Drainage down the throat
- Fatigue
- Ear fullness or pressure
- Hearing loss
- Dental pain
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Decreased sense of smell
- Mild Dizziness
Our practice was the first in the community to offer several innovations to treat these conditions, including endoscopic sinus surgery, balloon sinus dilation and sublingual immunotherapy.
We continue this trend today with new injectable “biologic” therapies such as Xolair, Nucala and Dupixent that provide truly miraculous results for potentially incurable conditions such as polypoid sinusitis.
The initial treatment of chronic sinusitis usually involves nasal sprays, decongestants, steroids, antihistamines and antibiotics. When symptoms occur more than 4 times per year, or persist for more than 12 weeks, a referral to an ENT specialist is in order.
During a visit to Mann ENT, a full medical history will be obtained, and the symptoms prompting the visit will be discussed. After a full head and neck exam is performed, imaging studies such as a CT scan of the sinuses and an allergy test are often considered.
Sinusitis that does not respond to medical management will often improve with sensitization immunotherapy (allergy shots or allergy drops) or possibly endoscopic sinus surgery, including minimally invasive techniques such as Balloon Sinuplasty, which can now be performed comfortably in our office.
WHAT ARE BIOLOGIC THERAPIES FOR CHRONIC SINUSITIS WITH NASAL POLYPS, ASTHMA AND ALLERGY?
As the newest innovation in the treatment of chronic sinusitis, a new class of injectable medications called “Biologics” have now been approved for the treatment of chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps, asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and food allergies.
Dosed at once every 2, 4 or 6 weeks depending on the specific medication, with self injection available, these immunoglobulin based therapies have revolutionized the treatment of some of the most severe forms of sinusitis, allergy and skin conditions like atopic dermatitis.
The doctors at Mann ENT were the first in the area to prescribe Dupixent, Nucala and Xolair for our nasal polyposis patients. With these novel medications, patients may completely avoid the need for sinus surgery or the side effects of more traditional medications, with excellent control of symptoms very possible.
WHAT IS BALLOON SINUS DILATION?
During a sinus dilation procedure, a small balloon is passed into the entrance of one or more sinus cavities by way of the natural openings of the nose.
The bony entrance to the sinus cavity is then enlarged, with the help of the balloon system. No instrumentation or packing is left inside the nose after the procedure.
After enlargement of the opening, the sinus itself can better drain the natural fluids and gasses produced in the sinuses, leading to improved function and relief of symptoms. Studies have shown that this enlarged opening stays open when rechecked several years after the original procedure. A permanent fix for sinus problems is the intent of sinus dilation.
For your comfort, this procedure may be performed while you are fully asleep in our office. If you choose this option, you will additionally be under the care of a fully licensed Anesthesiologist during the entirety of your procedure at Mann ENT. In this manner, you can avoid any discomfort (or even memory) of your procedure, while also avoiding the increased cost and inconvenience of a visit to a hospital or surgery center.
Our Allergy Program at Mann ENT
Allergies affect over 45 million Americans. They occur when the immune system mistakes harmless substances like pollen, mold, dust, food, animal dander, or chemicals for threats. The body then releases histamine and other mediators that cause symptoms.
Common symptoms include itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion or drainage, facial pressure, recurrent sinus infections, hoarseness, ear problems, and eczema. Some people have year-round symptoms; others only suffer during certain seasons.
We use multiple approaches to manage allergies: allergen avoidance, medications (antihistamines, decongestants, steroid or saline sprays), and immunotherapy. Environmental controls like air filtration, reduced carpeting, and special vacuums also help.
At your first visit, we perform a head & neck exam, review your history, and offer blood tests (RAST) or needle-free skin testing. We also provide full skin endpoint testing for more precise results. If tests are positive, we review your specific triggers and how to avoid them.
For ongoing symptoms, we offer subcutaneous injections (SQIT) or at-home sublingual drops (SLIT). SLIT is ideal for children, people who cannot tolerate needle injections, patients that live far from our offices or frequent travelers. We can even combine immunotherapy with in-office procedures like Balloon Sinuplasty for more complete control of symptoms. If issues persist, biologic medications like Dupixent, Nucala, Fasenra and Xolair are now available for symptoms that do not respond to traditional treatments.