Frequently Asked Questions

What is chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is long-term inflammation of the sinus cavities lasting 12 weeks or longer. It commonly causes persistent nasal congestion, facial pressure, sinus headaches, thick nasal drainage, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Chronic sinus infections can significantly impact sleep, energy, and overall quality of life.

What are the most common symptoms of chronic sinusitis?

Common symptoms include:

• Ongoing nasal congestion or blockage
  
• Thick yellow or green nasal drainage
  
• Postnasal drip
  
• Facial pressure or pain
  
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
  
• Fatigue
  

If these sinus symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, you may have chronic sinusitis.

When should I see an ENT specialist for sinus problems?

You should schedule a sinus evaluation if:

• Symptoms persist longer than 12 weeks
  
• You experience frequent sinus infections
  
• Over-the-counter sinus medications are not helping
  
• You have ongoing facial pressure or sinus headaches
  

A board-certified ENT can determine whether medical treatment or a minimally invasive procedure such as Balloon Sinuplasty is appropriate.

Can chronic sinusitis affect smell and taste?

Yes. Chronic sinus inflammation can block airflow to the olfactory receptors responsible for smell. Many patients experience reduced or lost sense of smell and taste, which often improves with proper sinus treatment.

What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive sinus procedure performed in-office to treat chronic sinusitis. A small balloon catheter is used to gently open blocked sinus passages, restoring natural drainage without cutting or removing bone or tissue.

Who is a good candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have chronic sinusitis not improving with medication
  
• Experience recurrent sinus infections
  
• Suffer from sinus pressure or sinus headaches
  
• Want to avoid traditional sinus surgery
  

An in-office ENT consultation is required to determine eligibility.

What are the benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty?

• Minimally invasive (no cutting or tissue removal)
  
• Performed under local anesthesia
  
• Quick recovery (many return to normal activity in 1–2 days)
  
• Less pain and bleeding than traditional sinus surgery
  
• Long-lasting sinus relief
  

What is recovery like after Balloon Sinuplasty?

Most patients experience mild congestion or drainage for a few days. Significant discomfort is uncommon. Many return to work and normal daily activities within 24–48 hours.

What does a sinus headache feel like?

A sinus headache typically causes:

• Pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• Thick nasal discharge
  
• Pain that worsens when bending forward
  

Many headaches mistaken for sinus headaches are actually migraines, so proper diagnosis is important.

What causes sinus headaches?

Sinus headaches are often caused by:

• Sinus infections
  
• Allergies
  
• Chronic sinusitis
  
• Nasal structural problems
  

How can I treat a sinus headache at home?

Mild sinus headaches may improve with:

• Saline nasal irrigation
  
• Steam inhalation
  
• Warm compresses
  
• Hydration
  
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
  

If headaches are frequent or severe, a sinus evaluation is recommended.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type and is caused by airway blockage in the nose or throat.

What are common symptoms of sleep apnea?

• Loud snoring
  
• Pauses in breathing during sleep
  
• Gasping or choking at night
  
• Morning headaches
  
• Daytime fatigue
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include:

• A comprehensive airway exam
  
• Home sleep study
  
• In-office endoscopic evaluation
  

Early diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is essential to prevent heart disease, high blood pressure, and other complications.

Why is it important to treat sleep apnea?

Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. Proper treatment improves sleep quality and long-term health.

Why does a sinus infection cause loss of smell?

Inflammation and mucus block odor molecules from reaching smell receptors in the nose, resulting in temporary smell loss (anosmia).

How long does smell loss last?

Mild cases resolve within days to weeks. If symptoms persist longer than 12 weeks, evaluation for chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps is recommended.

Is smell loss permanent?

In most cases, smell returns with proper sinus treatment. Early intervention improves recovery outcomes.

What is nasal airway obstruction?

Nasal airway obstruction is restricted airflow through the nose due to structural issues or chronic inflammation. It can affect breathing, sleep, exercise, and overall comfort.

What causes nasal airway obstruction?

Common causes include:

• Deviated septum
  
• Enlarged turbinates
  
• Nasal valve collapse
  
• Chronic allergies
  

Do medications fix nasal airway obstruction?

Medications may provide temporary relief but do not correct structural nasal problems.

What is VivAer® treatment?

VivAer® is a minimally invasive, in-office nasal airway treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to gently reshape nasal tissues and improve breathing — without incisions or general anesthesia.