5 Common Winter Sinusitis Complications
NYC winters can be spectacular, but they can also bring unpleasant health complications, including sinusitis. Sinusitis is a common condition when the sinuses (air-filled spaces in the bones of the face) become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation can cause various symptoms, from congestion and facial pain to headaches and fever.
While sinusitis is usually a relatively minor condition that can be treated with home remedies or over-the-counter medications, several potential complications can arise if it is left untreated or becomes severe. New York Sinusitis Treatment offers sinusitis treatment just south of Central Park at 200 W. 57th Street in New York City.
Dr. Greg Levitin and his team want NYC residents and visitors to know about the five most common winter sinusitis complications and their symptoms so you know when to see us for treatment.
Chronic Sinusitis
If sinusitis persists for more than 12 weeks, it is considered chronic. Chronic sinusitis can be more challenging to treat than acute sinusitis and often requires more aggressive treatment, such as antibiotics, steroid sprays or surgery.
Eye Complications
Sinusitis can cause swelling around the eyes, leading to eye pain, redness and even vision problems in severe cases. In some cases, sinusitis can also lead to an infection of the eye or the surrounding tissue, which can cause severe complications if left untreated.
Ear Infections
The sinuses and ears are connected by a narrow Eustachian tube. When the sinuses become swollen and inflamed, this tube can become blocked, leading to ear infections. These infections can cause ear pain, hearing loss and other complications if left untreated.
Meningitis
While rare, sinusitis can also lead to meningitis, a potentially life-threatening infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can cause fever, headache, stiff neck and other symptoms and requires immediate medical attention.
Asthma
Sinusitis can trigger asthma symptoms in some people, leading to coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing. If you have asthma, it is crucial to manage your sinusitis symptoms to prevent asthma attacks.
Balloon Sinuplasty Treatment in NYC
One of the most effective and widely popular chronic sinusitis treatments is minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty. Dr. Greg Levitin is a balloon sinuplasty treatment expert in NYC. Dr. Levitin and his team always choose the correct treatment option for each patient, and non-surgical balloon sinuplasty is often adequate for long-lasting relief. Balloon sinuplasty is proven to work for most patients, and there is seldom any need for aftercare or ongoing support.
Chronic sinusitis complications can be severe, but they are relatively rare and can usually be prevented by treating sinusitis early and effectively. If you experience symptoms of sinusitis, such as congestion, facial pain or headaches, make sure to see Dr. Levitin to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
New York winters may aggravate your sinusitis, but proper treatment that can include balloon sinusitis could help you enjoy the winter season much more and deal with sinusitis symptoms much less. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
