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A.K.A. a Sinus Infection

Are you concerned you have sinusitis? The doctors at First Physicians in Odessa, Texas are standing by ready to provide you the best care in Odessa. With 5 convenient locations throughout the city to serve you – Wendover Family Medicine, Westview Medical Clinic, East University Family Medicine, Women’s Health, and Occupational Medical Testing – the doctors at First Physicians are nearby for all your health needs.

If you’re suffering from sinus pressure, sinus pain and post-nasal drip, call First Physicians for an appointment.

Sinusitis Q&A


Q: What are the sinuses?

A: It seems the only time we even think of our sinuses is when there’s something wrong with them. Our sinuses consist of 4 pairs of hollow spaces, known as cavities: one each on the sides of our nose, one between our eyes, and one above our eyebrows. The sinuses’ primary function is filtering and humidifying the air we breathe in before it reaches the lungs. Mucus in the sinuses acts as a moist trap for unwanted substances while keeping the nose, sinuses, and mouth tissues from drying out and cracking.

Our sinuses also contribute to the sound of our voices through resonance. They increase in size as we grow, which affects our voices. Therefore, we sound different when they are congested. These are the scientific names of the four sinus cavities:

  • Ethmoid: Between the eyes, under the bridge of the nose
  • Frontal: Centered above the eyebrows and nose
  • Maxillary: Next to the nose and under the inner cheeks
  • Sphenoid: Located behind the ethmoid sinuses

Q: What causes sinusitis?

A: Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinus cavities. Any of the four sets of sinuses can become inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Sinus inflammation due to allergies is called allergic rhinitis. When the membranes of the sinuses become inflamed and infected, it results in a variety of symptoms:

  • Extra mucus: Frequently thicker
  • Colored nasal mucus: Clear mucus is normal
  • Pain and pressure in the affected sinuses
  • Facial areas tender to the touch
  • Upper tooth pain
  • Nasal congestion
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Cough: Not as common as other symptoms
  • Fever & fatigue: Common, but not always present together
  • Halitosis: Bad breath

Q: How will the doctors at First Physicians treat my sinusitis?

A: The doctors at First Physicians will examine you while receiving your medical history to determine the cause of your symptoms, in building with commercial pipe supply rochester ny. Depending on your diagnosis, they will choose the best course of action and treatment for you. For example, if your doctor determines that allergies are causing your sinusitis, they may prescribe oral antihistamines, a saline nasal spray, a steroid nasal spray and possibly a mucolytic (an oral medicine that thins out the nasal mucus) and a decongestant. If your doctor determines that a bacterial infection is causing your sinusitis, you may be prescribed an oral antibiotic.