Sinusitis (Sinus Infections) in Gurnee & Libertyville
If it feels like you have a cold that just won’t go away, it might not be a cold at all—it could be sinusitis. This condition occurs when the sinuses (air-filled spaces around your nose) become blocked and filled with mucus due to infection or inflammation. At Lake County ENT, we help relieve pressure, restore drainage, and prevent future infections so you can breathe and feel better again.
What it is
Inflammation or infection of the sinus cavities that causes pressure, congestion, pain, and nasal blockage.
Who it affects
All ages, especially those with allergies, nasal polyps, or structural blockages like a deviated septum.
How we help
In-office evaluation, imaging, medical management, and advanced sinus procedures when needed.
Still congested after 10 days of “cold” symptoms? It may be sinusitis, not just a cold.
Types of Sinusitis
Acute Sinusitis
- Lasts up to 4 weeks
- Usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection
- Symptoms: congestion, colored drainage, pressure, facial pain
- Often occurs after a cold or upper respiratory infection
Chronic Sinusitis
- Lasts 12 weeks or longer
- Caused by long-term inflammation, not necessarily infection
- Symptoms: persistent congestion, fatigue, decreased smell, post-nasal drip
- Often linked to allergies, polyps, or structural issues
When to call us: Sinus pain lasting more than 10 days, recurring infections, or facial pressure that’s not improving with medication.
Call 911 for swelling around the eyes, vision changes, or high fever with severe headache.
How We Diagnose Sinusitis
Our Evaluation
- Comprehensive history and physical exam
- Assessment of nasal airflow and drainage
- Endoscopic nasal evaluation for inflammation or polyps
Tests We May Use
- CT scan: Evaluates sinus structure and chronic blockage
- Allergy testing: Identifies triggers of inflammation
- Culture or swab: For bacterial or fungal infections
Don’t let sinus pain linger. Our ENT specialists can relieve pressure and restore healthy breathing.
Treatment Options
Medical Care
- Saline rinses or sprays to clear mucus
- Nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation
- Antibiotics (if bacterial infection confirmed)
- Decongestants or antihistamines for short-term relief
- Treatment of underlying allergies
Surgical Options
- Endoscopic sinus surgery: Opens blocked passages to restore drainage
- Balloon sinuplasty: Minimally invasive dilation of sinus openings
- Often performed in-office with local anesthesia
- Allows better long-term control of symptoms and medication delivery
What to Expect at Your Visit
Visit Steps
- Listen & evaluate: Review symptoms and prior treatments
- Exam & testing: Nasal endoscopy or imaging as needed
- Plan together: Choose the most effective medical or surgical path
Helpful Tips
- Stay hydrated and use a humidifier during dry months
- Use saline rinses daily during flare-ups
- Manage allergies and avoid environmental irritants
Breathe easier with expert ENT care. Relief from sinus pain is just one visit away.
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Don’t let sinus infections slow you down. Get lasting relief with expert ENT care in Gurnee and Libertyville.