Sinus and Nasal Disorders

Breathe Easier. Feel Better.

Sinus and Nasal Disorders

Persistent sinus and nasal problems can affect far more than your breathing. Congestion, facial pressure, recurring sinus infections and nasal obstruction can interfere with sleep, concentration and how you feel throughout the day.

At SCENT, Dr. Wendy McConnell provides specialized evaluation and treatment for sinus and nasal conditions, with care focused on identifying the cause of your symptoms and finding the right path toward lasting relief.

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Common Sinus & Nasal Conditions

Sinus and nasal symptoms can have many different causes. Understanding what is behind them is the first step toward finding effective treatment. Dr. McConnell evaluates and treats a wide range of sinus and nasal conditions, including:

  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Recurrent sinus infections
  • Nasal congestion
  • Nasal obstruction
  • Nasal polyps
  • Deviated septum
  • Allergies
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose

Finding the Cause of Your Symptoms

Finding the Cause of Your Symptoms

Sinus pressure, congestion and difficulty breathing can feel similar even when the underlying causes are different. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether symptoms are related to inflammation, infection, allergies, structural problems or another nasal or sinus condition.

Dr. McConnell takes time to understand your symptoms, how long they have been occurring and how they are affecting your daily life. Based on your needs, your evaluation may include a detailed examination and appropriate diagnostic testing to help guide treatment.

Finding the Cause of Your Symptoms

Treatment Focused on Lasting Relief

Treatment should address the cause of your symptoms, not simply provide temporary relief. Dr. McConnell develops an individualized treatment plan based on your diagnosis, symptoms and overall needs.

Medical Treatment

When appropriate, sinus and nasal conditions may be managed with medications and other nonsurgical approaches designed to effectively control symptoms and address their underlying cause.

Specialized ENT Care

Persistent or recurring problems may require additional evaluation and treatment to better address chronic inflammation, obstruction or other conditions affecting the nose and sinuses.

Procedural & Surgical Care

When medical treatment alone is not enough, procedural or surgical options may be considered for conditions such as chronic sinus disease, nasal polyps or more persistent structural obstruction.

When Should You See an ENT?

Occasional congestion or sinus discomfort is common, but persistent or recurring symptoms may be a sign that something more is going on. An ENT evaluation may be appropriate if you are experiencing:

  • Sinus infections that keep returning
  • Nasal congestion that does not improve
  • Ongoing facial pressure or sinus discomfort
  • Difficulty breathing through your nose
  • Reduced sense of smell
  • Symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily activities

If sinus or nasal symptoms continue to affect how you feel, a specialized evaluation can help identify the cause and determine what treatment may provide relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sinus and nasal symptoms can raise questions about what is causing them, when to seek care and what treatment may involve. Here are answers to some of the questions patients commonly have about sinus and nasal conditions.

How do I know if I have sinusitis or just a cold?

Colds and sinusitis can cause similar symptoms, including congestion and facial pressure. Symptoms that persist, worsen or repeatedly return may warrant further evaluation.

Can allergies cause ongoing sinus problems?

Yes. Allergies can contribute to nasal inflammation, congestion and other sinus symptoms. Identifying whether allergies are contributing to your symptoms can help guide appropriate treatment.

What causes chronic nasal congestion?

Persistent congestion can have several causes, including allergies, chronic inflammation, nasal polyps, a deviated septum or other conditions that restrict airflow through the nose. An evaluation can help determine what is contributing to your symptoms.

Can nasal polyps cause recurring sinus problems?

Yes. Nasal polyps can contribute to congestion, reduced airflow and recurring sinus symptoms. An evaluation can determine whether polyps are present and what treatment may be appropriate.

Does every sinus condition require surgery?

No. Many sinus and nasal conditions can be treated with medications or other nonsurgical approaches. Procedural or surgical treatment may be considered when appropriate based on the diagnosis, severity of symptoms and response to other treatment.

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Ready to Find Relief?

Persistent sinus and nasal symptoms do not have to become part of everyday life. Request an appointment with SCENT and take the next step toward breathing easier and feeling better.

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