Chronic Sinusitis Specialist

Steven D. Kushnick, MD Our Services Chronic Sinusitis
Steven D. Kushnick, MD - - ENT

Steven D. Kushnick, MD

ENT located in Brooklyn, NY

It may have started with a cold, but ongoing post-nasal drip, cough, or tenderness in your face may be signs of chronic sinusitis. Steven D. Kushnick, MD, is an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist in the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. He recommends chronic sinusitis sufferers schedule a visit to get relief from their symptoms. With more than 34 years of experience, Dr. Kushnick offers evidence-based medical and surgical treatments for chronic sinusitis. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

Chronic Sinusitis Q & A

What is chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is persistent sinus inflammation and infection that lasts three or more months. Your sinuses are cavities in your skull that produce mucus to clean, warm, and moisturize the air you breathe.

For your sinuses to remain healthy, the mucus must drain into the nose. A blockage or reduction in mucus drainage creates the perfect environment for bacterial growth, leading to an infection. 

It’s not uncommon to develop sinusitis after a cold or flu. However, symptoms usually go away within a month. With chronic sinusitis, the symptoms remain or recur. 

What are the symptoms of chronic sinusitis?

Symptoms of chronic sinusitis are similar to acute sinusitis but milder. Common symptoms include:

  • Post-nasal drip
  • Facial pain
  • Nasal obstruction
  • Decreased sense of taste and smell
  • Fatigue
  • Bad breath
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Toothache

In addition to infections, chronic sinusitis may also develop if you have a chronic respiratory condition such as asthma, allergies, or cystic fibrosis. Polyps and abnormal nasal structures may also increase your risk of developing chronic sinusitis.

If you have chronic sinusitis or recurring bouts of acute sinusitis, Dr. Kushnick recommends scheduling an appointment for an evaluation. 

What happens during a chronic sinusitis evaluation?

Dr. Kushnick conducts a thorough evaluation when you come to the office with concerns about chronic sinusitis. 

During your exam, he takes a detailed history that includes the nature and duration of your symptoms, response to treatment, and other test results. Dr. Kushnick also reviews your medical history, including any past nasal trauma or surgery. 

Dr. Kushnick then evaluates your head and neck, using fiber optic visualization to look at your nasal passages and sinus cavities to determine the cause of your symptoms. 

Dr. Kushnick may also request other diagnostic tests, such as a sinus CT scan or allergy tests, so you get an accurate diagnosis. 

How is chronic sinusitis treated?

Treatment for your chronic sinusitis focuses on the underlying cause. Your treatment plan may include:

  • Intranasal corticosteroid spray
  • Treatment for underlying conditions (allergies, asthma)
  • Surgery to correct structural abnormalities
  • Balloon sinuplasty (opens the sinus cavity)

If you have a bacterial infection, Dr. Kushnick prescribes antibiotics. 

You may need more than one therapy to get long-term relief.

For expert care of your chronic sinusitis from an experienced ENT, call the office of Steven D. Kushnick, MD, or book an appointment online today.

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