How to Beat Chronic Sinusitis and Reclaim Your Quality of Life
No doubt about it—sinusitis is a condition that can make everyday life absolutely miserable. Symptoms such as facial pressure and pain, nasal discharge, postnasal drainage, cough, congestion, loss of smell, fever, bad breath, tooth pain and fatigue all add up to feeling downright lousy. Fortunately, according to sinus specialist Dr. Micah Likness of Midwest ENT & Allergy in Sioux Falls, sinusitis is often manageable, and in many cases, treatable through medication or minimally invasive sinus surgery.
When those symptoms drag on for weeks – or even months – they can take a serious toll on your quality of life. And it doesn’t discriminate – this condition affects both children and adults. Fortunately, according to sinus specialist Dr. Micah Likness of Midwest ENT & Allergy in Sioux Falls, sinusitis is often manageable, and in many cases, treatable through medication or minimally invasive sinus surgery.
“Chronic sinusitis was historically thought to be an caused by bacterial infection, but we now know that in most cases it is a chronic inflammatory condition of the lining of the sinuses,” explains Dr. Likness. “It may be caused by allergies triggering the inflammation, but not always. We start by evaluating patients with a comprehensive history and physical exam, as well as a nasal endoscopy, where we use a small camera to assess the anatomy of the nose and sinus drainage pathways.” This allows us to formulate an individualized plan of treatment that is best for the patient. Potential further work-up includes CT scan or allergy testing, both of which are available at our Midwest ENT office.”
For patients who don’t find relief with medications or have anatomical issues, minimally invasive surgery may be the next step. These procedures open the sinuses to restore natural drainage, which relieves pressure and reduces the likelihood of infection.
“Surgery can be life-changing for patients who have suffered from chronic sinusitis,” says Dr. Likness. “It allows them to breathe through their nose again, resolves facial pressure and pain, can restore their sense of smell, and significantly decreases overall symptoms.”
One of the most reassuring aspects for patients is that many procedures can be performed right in the office, without general anesthesia. “It really puts patients at ease knowing the surgery is quick and can be done here,” notes Dr. Likness. “Most people are able to drive themselves home afterward and even return to work the next day.”
Minimally Invasive Nasal and Sinus Surgery Options at Midwest ENT & Allergy
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): Removes diseased tissue and polyps while opening narrow channels between sinuses.
- Balloon Sinus Dilation: Expands sinus pathways by reshaping anatomy to restore natural drainage and provide instant relief.
- VivAer® Treatment: A non-invasive technique to gently remodel nasal tissue and improve airflow.
- RhinAer® Treatment: A non-invasive technique to precisely target and calm down the overactive nerves in the nose, helping to reduce the production and flow of unwanted mucus and shrink inflamed soft tissue in your nose to help relieve congestion.
- ClariFix®: Cooling treatment addresses chronic rhinitis, postnasal drainage and congestion.
- SINUVA® Sinus Implant: A non-surgical option that shrinks nasal polyps.
- Acclarent AERA® Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation: A small balloon inserted through the nose to treat persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), a condition in which pressure, pain or clogged or muffled sensations occur in the ear. The balloon opens up a pathway for mucus and air to flow through the Eustachian tube and restores function.
Dr. Likness emphasizes that no one should have to simply “live with” chronic sinusitis. “There are effective treatments available. Most patients tell us they wish they had sought help sooner, and it’s incredibly rewarding as a physician to know we’ve been able to restore their quality of life.”
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call 605-336-3503.