Nasal polyps are frequently seen in chronic sinusitis. Sinusitis is generally diagnosed by the medical history, physical examination and x-rays. Treatment of acute sinusitis is designed to prevent complications and to keep the acute process from becoming chronic. Oral antibiotics, decongestants and analgesics are prescribed. Bedrest, local heat and increased fluids are helpful in controlling the systemic symptoms.
Surgery is sometimes the only solution.
The goal of surgical treatment is to return the nose and sinuses to normal function. A wide variety of surgical procedures are available. The choice of surgical procedure will depend on the particular sinus involved, previous therapy and the patient's general state of health. In many cases, the more conservative endoscopic procedure may be used to eliminate the point of major blockage causing chronic sinusitis. Sinusitis and its treatments cover the spectrum from a minor infection which responds to antibiotic treatment to the more serious infections which frequently need emergency or semi-emergent surgery.