Chronic sinus congestion, facial pressure, and headaches can make everyday life exhausting. If these symptoms keep coming back, it may be more than just seasonal allergies—it could be sinusitis. At ENT Specialists of Austin, our board-certified physicians provide advanced, evidence-based care for sinus problems. Using diagnostic precision and modern treatments, our team helps patients across Austin, TX breathe easier and feel better.
What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become inflamed, swollen, or infected. The condition prevents normal mucus drainage and creates uncomfortable pressure in the face and head. Sinusitis can be acute, lasting less than four weeks, or chronic, lasting 12 weeks or longer despite medical treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Facial pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead
- Nasal congestion and discharge
- Postnasal drip
- Headaches that worsen when bending forward
- Loss of smell or taste
- Fatigue and poor sleep
Because sinus symptoms often resemble those of colds or allergies, a proper ENT evaluation is key to identifying the cause and determining the most effective treatment.
Common Causes of Sinusitis
Sinusitis can develop for a variety of reasons. Acute infections often follow a viral cold, while chronic sinusitis may result from structural problems or persistent inflammation. The most common causes include:
- Deviated septum or nasal polyps that block drainage pathways
- Untreated allergies or asthma
- Repeated upper respiratory infections
- Environmental irritants such as smoke or pollution
- Bacterial or fungal infections
At ENT Specialists of Austin, we use nasal endoscopy, allergy testing, and advanced imaging to identify what’s causing your symptoms so that treatment targets the root of the problem.
Treatment Options for Sinusitis
Treatment depends on the severity and duration of symptoms. Mild sinus infections may improve with medication, while chronic or recurring sinusitis often requires more comprehensive care. Our treatment options include:
- Medical management: Prescription nasal sprays, antihistamines, and antibiotics when appropriate
- Allergy management: Testing and treatment plans to reduce inflammation and prevent future sinus issues
- Balloon sinuplasty:Â A minimally invasive, in-office procedure that uses a small balloon to gently open blocked sinus passages and restore normal airflow and drainage
Balloon sinuplasty is ideal for patients who experience chronic sinus symptoms despite medication. It is performed under local anesthesia and requires little to no downtime, allowing most patients to return to normal activities the same day.
Sinusitis Q & A
The sinuses are the hollows in the bones around the nose. Healthy sinuses stay open and drain normally. When bacteria or a virus invade the sinuses, the lining swells and blocks mucus drainage. Sinusitis results from the inflammation of the nasal passages and the trapped mucus.
There are two types of sinusitis:
- Acute sinusitis: symptoms last up to four weeks
- Chronic sinusitis: prolonged sinus inflammation that lasts 12 weeks or more
- Cloudy or discolored nose drainage
- Pain or pressure in the sinuses
- Congestion in the nose
- Sinus headache
A bacterial or viral infection typically causes acute sinusitis, but nasal polyps or a deviated septum could also be to blame. Ongoing inflammation, rather than infection, is usually the cause of chronic sinusitis.
Your primary care provider usually refers you to an ENT specialist when necessary. However, if your sinusitis doesn’t clear up and you think you need specialized care, contact ENT Specialists of Austin.
Signs that it’s time to see an ENT specialist include:
- A “cold” that doesn’t get better after two weeks
- Recurring sinus infections
- Sinusitis that doesn’t respond to treatment
- Sinus problems that don’t improve after seeing your primary care provider
Most cases of sinusitis clear up with conservative treatments such as salt water nasal irrigation, corticosteroids, and nasal steroid sprays. If your sinus infection is bacterial, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
Rare cases of severe sinusitis that don’t clear up with these conservative methods may improve with surgery. Our team of physicians perform minimally invasive endoscopic nasal surgery to clear away obstructions, enlarge the nasal passages, or repair a deviated septum.
If your sinuses cause persistent problems, contact ENT Specialists of Austin online or over the phone to see a sinus expert.
Why Choose ENT Specialists of Austin?
Our ENT specialists are highly trained in diagnosing and treating both acute and chronic sinusitis. With years of experience and access to advanced diagnostic technology, we provide comprehensive solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether your sinus issues stem from allergies, infection, or structural blockage, we can develop an individualized treatment plan that delivers long-lasting relief.
As leaders in ENT care for Central Texas, we are committed to helping our patients restore clear breathing, better sleep, and improved quality of life through trusted medical and procedural care.
Schedule a Sinus Evaluation
If nasal congestion, facial pain, or frequent sinus infections are disrupting your life, it may be time for expert help. ENT Specialists of Austin offers complete evaluation and treatment for sinusitis and related conditions. Contact (512) 346-7600 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation and start breathing easier again.