Ongoing sinus blockage is far more than a nuisance that makes breathing more difficult. Depending on the severity, it can cause serious health complications.

Severe sinus blockages can become infected. Untreated infections can spread to your eyes, damage your sense of smell or lead to other infections. A variety of treatments are available, depending on the reason your nasal passages are blocked.

  • Oral corticosteroids offer short-term relief for acute sinusitis in severe episodes or if you have nasal polyps.
  • Nasal sprays may work well if your problem is caused by inflammation from allergies. Sometimes, these are combined with regular saline rinses to reduce irritants.
  • Allergy treatments (immunotherapy) can reduce the inflammation and provide ongoing relief.
  • Balloon sinuplasty is a non-invasive procedure that opens blocked sinus passages so mucus can drain. Most patients return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.
  • Endoscopic sinus surgery may be an option to remove polyps or tissues blocking your sinus passages. This minimally invasive surgery requires 3 to 5 days for recovery, depending on the amount of tissue removed.

The best treatment approach is customized to identify the cause(s) and remedies that work best for you. Don’t let chronic sinusitis make your life miserable. The right treatment can put you on the path to better breathing.