Medical Treatments

Nasal Corticosteroids

Nasal corticosteroid nasal sprays are used to treat inflammation. Among those available are fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone, triamcinolone, and beclomethasone. Your doctor may suggest a rinsing solution like saline mixed with drops of budesonide.

Saline Nasal Irrigation

Using saline nasal irrigation with your nasal spray or solution can reduce drainage and rinse allergies and other irritants.

Allergy Medications

Allergy medications may provide some relief if you find that your chronic sinusitis is caused by allergies. Many people do not wish to use allergy medications long-term.

Oral or Injected Corticosteroids

Oral or injected corticosteroids can relieve inflammation from chronic sinusitis, particularly if you have nasal polyps. However, you should be mindful that oral corticosteroids can cause serious side effects when used long-term. They are only used to treat severe symptoms.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics can be used if your infection is bacterial. They can also be used with other medications.

Immunotherapy

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) can help reduce your reaction to specific allergens and may improve your condition. Often allergies can contribute to your sinusitis. Contact one of our clinics today to find out more about an effective treatment for sinusitis and book a consultation.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections can help if you aren’t responding to any other treatments or have had issues with your sinusitis for more than 12 weeks. Injections can help reduce inflammation and swelling. However, they are usually used as a last resort.

Medication to Treat Nasal Polyps and Chronic Sinusitis

Your doctor may decide that you may be a candidate for immunobiological treatments such as dupilumab, tezepelumad, or mepolizumab.

In addition to medical treatment, certain lifestyle adjustments may help reduce exposure to triggers such as:

Keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons

Using air filtration systems

Washing bedding regularly

Avoiding known irritants such as smoke

These steps may help improve symptom control when combined with treatment.
You may consider seeking evaluation if symptoms are persistent or worsening, over-the-counter treatments are not effective, symptoms interfere with sleep or daily activities, or you are unsure of the cause of your symptoms.
Dr. Kim commonly uses skin and blood tests for allergy testing. Skin tests include skin patch tests, skin prick tests, and intradermal tests. Oral food challenges and elimination diets may be used to test for food allergies.

Types of Allergies

Seasonal Allergies

Allergies that occur during specific times of the year, often related to pollen exposure.

Perennial Allergies

Allergies that occur year-round and are typically associated with indoor allergens.

Non-Allergic Rhinitis

Involves similar symptoms but is triggered by irritants rather than an immune response.

Common Allergy Triggers

Pollen

Trees, grasses, and weeds

Dust Mites

Common in bedding and upholstery

Mold

Found in damp indoor or outdoor environments

Pet Dander

Skin cells and saliva from animals

Irritants

Smoke, pollution, or strong odors

Treatment Options for Allergies

Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and decongestants (short-term use) may help inflammation and reduce symptoms.
Allergy testing may be recommended to help identify specific triggers contributing to your symptoms. This information can be used to guide treatment and avoidance strategies. For some patients, finding out what they’re allergic to is necessary for preventing potentially life-threatening reactions, such as allergies to bee stings or nuts.
Immunotherapy may be recommended for some patients with persistent allergy symptoms. This treatment involves gradually exposing the body to small amounts of allergens over time, which may help reduce sensitivity. It is typically considered when symptoms are not well-controlled with medications or avoidance strategies.
In some cases, additional in-office treatments may be considered to help manage chronic nasal symptoms related to allergies. These options are typically recommended based on individual evaluation and symptom severity.