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About Sinus Problems
Sinus issues may arise with a cold or develop into chronic, long term conditions, causing congestion, sinus pain, pressure, and headaches. If you’re in Fort Lauderdale or the greater Broward County area and your symptoms persist, it’s time to seek care from Dr. Paul Lapco, ENT, in Pompano Beach, Florida. Paul Lapco, MD, provides expert, personalized care to diagnose the root cause of your symptoms and deliver effective treatment to help you feel better. Don’t delay in addressing your sinus problems—call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Sinus Problems Q&A
What Should I Know About My Sinuses?
Your face and skull contain air-filled pockets called sinuses. You have eight sinus cavities—four on each side of your face—located along your nose, in your cheeks, and in your forehead just above your eyes. These are the areas where you may feel pain and pressure during sinus problems.
Each sinus is lined with membranes that produce mucus, which exits through a small opening into the nasal passages. Though mucus is often associated with discomfort, it plays a vital role in keeping your nose moist and warm.
What Sinus Problems Might I Develop?
Sinus problems commonly arise when infections cause inflammation in the tissues lining your nose and sinuses. Swollen tissues block the sinus openings, trapping mucus inside.
Other nasal issues, such as nasal polyps, enlarged turbinates, or a deviated septum, can also block the sinuses and disrupt drainage.
Common sinus problems related to inflammation and infection (sinusitis) include:
- Allergic sinusitis
- Nonallergic sinusitis
- Chronic sinusitis
- Fungal sinusitis
- Bacterial infections
Additionally, polyps may form inside your sinuses or nasal passages. When polyps grow large, they can block mucus drainage, potentially leading to smell and taste disorders.
What Symptoms Develop With Sinus Problems?
Common symptoms of sinus problems include:
- Nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Pain, pressure, and tenderness around your sinuses
- Thick nasal discharge
- Sinus headaches
- Loss of smell
- Ear pressure
- Cough
- Fatigue
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lapco if your symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by a fever, or if you have a history of recurrent sinusitis.
How Are Sinus Problems Treated?
Dr. Lapco tailors treatment to the specific sinus problem and severity of your symptoms. If allergies are suspected, allergy testing and treatment may be recommended. Otherwise, treatment often begins with medications to alleviate symptoms.
For more persistent issues, Dr. Lapco offers several minimally invasive in-office procedures, including:
- Balloon Sinuplasty: Opens clogged sinuses
- VivAer®: Eliminates structural blockages
- SINUVA®: Shrinks nasal polyps
- PolypVac: Removes nasal polyps
- Septoplasty: Repairs a deviated septum
- Turbinate Surgery: Reduces or removes enlarged turbinates
If you’re experiencing sinus pain, pressure, or nasal congestion, call Dr. Paul Lapco, ENT, or book an appointment online today.