When to See a Rhinologist | A Sinus ENT Specialist

Thomas Higgins • December 22, 2023

A rhinologist is a board-certified surgeon who has expertise in the field of rhinology. In simpler terms, a rhinologist refers to an otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, who has undergone fellowship training in treating and performing surgeries on the nose, sinus, and skull-base. A rhinologist is also referred to as a sinus doctor or nose doctor.


The road to becoming a rhinologist is a lengthy one. After acquiring a bachelor's degree, the graduate must complete medical school training and otolaryngology residency, obtain a valid medical license, and gain certification in a specific field of specialization called Rhinology and Skull Base Surgery.


A rhinologist must be approved for the sixth year of highly specialized training beyond that required of a typical ENT doctor to earn this distinction. Diagnosing and treating illnesses of paranasal sinuses, the nose, as well as skull base and orbit are the focus of this specialization.


If you're wondering when to see a rhinologist in Louisville KY, keep reading to find out common indicators that it's time to see a Sinus ENT doctor.


Top Indicators That It's Time to See a Rhinologist


Ever since the dawn of civilization, the role of the paranasal sinuses and treatment options for sinus infections have fascinated mankind. Very little was understood about the function of the sinuses and the causes of nasal-related problems. Due to the lack of information, self-diagnosis and self-treatment were widespread. The available treatments included everything from aromatherapy to cold baths to cautery and tooth extraction. Sinusitis complications were found to cause meningitis and even death. Surgical techniques were highly risky and involved blindly chiseling into the sinus bone or making large facial incisions that scarred people for life.


Advances in surgical and clinical techniques and the invention of operational endoscopes, as well as computer-aided systems, have revolutionized the sinus surgery industry entirely. For instance, endoscopy involves using a plastic tube with a camera attached to it to precisely treat and diagnose sinus-related conditions in a procedure called nasal endoscopy. The tube is manipulated through tiny physiological body holes through a minimally invasive procedure, which is a safer method for diagnosing and treating such conditions. Endoscopic sinus surgery is now performed as an outpatient surgery to functionally improve the sinus drainage pathways and rid the sinuses of nasal polyps and infection.


Therefore, you can ensure that these specialists will thoroughly evaluate your symptoms before offering a treatment plan. Rhinologists are professionals in performing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and treating patients surgically and medically based on the extent of the specific sinonasal ailment. Below are some of the most common symptoms to consider if you should go for a consultation with an expert rhinologist.


Chronic or Recurrent Sinus Pain

When exposed to high amounts of allergens, dust build-up, or your nasal passage dries out due to excessive exposure to heat or air conditioning, it is possible for your sinus lining to become enlarged, irritated and painful. This enlargement obstructs the normal drainage of mucus, making your nose stuffy. If such symptoms last for several months or is not cleared by typical antibiotic treatment, it is time to consult a rhinologist. Sinus pain may affect your ears, nose, face, and upper teeth.


Sinus infection, also referred to as sinusitis, is a cold-like illness that makes the sinuses swollen or inflamed. "Recurrent sinus infections" are classified as at least four sinus infections annually. The paranasal sinuses are empty spaces in the bones surrounding our nose, cheekbones, and bones behind our forehead, eyebrows, and the nose at the front of our brain. These vacuum areas are linked to the nose via a few channels. Once the sinus lining swells due to infections, it blocks the sinus openings, resulting in sinusitis, a disease where these cavities get clogged.


Note that sinusitis can be chronic or acute, and its effects can be frustrating. Long-term sinusitis, often called "chronic sinusitis," is a series of sinus problems that don't react to medication/treatments or symptoms that persist for more than three months.

Some common symptoms of sinusitis include:


  • Nasal congestion
  • Altered sense of taste or smell
  • Discolored nasal discharge
  • Postnasal drip
  • Swelling and redness of the nasal lining
  • Coughing


Allergy and sinusitis symptoms might be difficult to distinguish. Nose allergies tend to result in increased sneezing, itching, and watery eyes and nose, which are symptoms of "rhinitis," which solely involves swollen nasal passages. Another term associated with chronic sinus conditions is asthma. As these two illnesses can exacerbate one another, it is crucial to treat them both aggressively.


Diagnosis and Treatment

An evaluation of the sinuses, nose, and throat is necessary to diagnose a sinus infection. An endoscopy is gently placed in the nose to find the sinus infection and identify if the patient has anatomy that increases their risk for sinus infections. A CT scan (image) of the sinuses may be performed if a sinus infection is severe or persists for a long time.


The results of these tests will help the rhinologist determine the type of illness and the appropriate medication to administer to the patient. For instance, your otolaryngologist may recommend antibiotics if bacteria caused the condition. Your doctor could recommend taking an anti-inflammatory drug like topical nasal corticosteroids if you have nasal polyps or chronic rhinitis. Other treatment options include:



Sinus surgery requires expert surgical techniques. A rhinologist is trained to perform revision sinus surgery to correct issues caused by a previous procedure or complicated sinusitis. Frontal sinus surgery is one of the surgeries that a fellowship-trained sinus specialist can handle when many otolaryngologists struggle. Extended endoscopic approaches are available as well that replace larger surgeries with facial incisions.

Once you visit an expert in rhinology, because of any of the symptoms listed above, they will determine the cause of your sinus discomfort and devise the most effective treatment strategy for you.


Stuffy and Runny Nose

Also known as chronic nasal drip, a runny and stuffed nose is the most prevalent symptom of a common cold. It is caused by the inflammation of the inner part of the nose. The minor or regular runny nose usually goes away after several days or weeks. It is vital to contact a rhinologist in Louisville KY if your runny nose is severe, persistent, or only on one side. This could signify a more severe underlying condition, like a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.


Sinus infections and allergies are the most common inflammatory conditions that cause a runny nose. About 30% of people in the U.S. experience allergic rhinitis, which is most frequently brought on by environmental allergens that induce the nasal mucosa to create inflammatory mediators resulting in clear mucus. Additionally, sinus infections can worsen nasal irritation and increase the production of clear or colored mucus.


A runny nose can have a more dangerous non-inflammatory cause, like excessive nasal nerve stimulation-induced mucus overproduction and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. While this is generally uncommon, it can become more frequent following a head or facial injury. The CSF surrounding the brain can flow down to the sinuses and enter the nose. Vasomotor rhinitis, a disorder caused by overactive nasal nerve stimulation, can cause specific individuals to produce a clear and watery nasal discharge that flows rapidly from the nose.


Below are symptoms of a runny nose that require a rhinologist's attention:


  • A salty taste in the mouth from the clear nasal drip
  • Excessive nasal drip accompanied by a persistent cough
  • Neck stiffness or severe headaches accompanying the nasal drip
  • Nasal drip that begins after sinus surgery or head/facial injury
  • Unpredictable and embarrassing clear nasal drip


Diagnosis and Treatment

Finding the underlying reason for your runny nose accompanying other sinus or nasal symptoms is the key to effective treatment and therapy. Your rhinologist will examine your nasal tubes and sinuses using nasal endoscopy. They may also perform a CT scan of your sinuses if they suspect that CSF is the cause of your runny nose.


Among the treatment options available for this condition include:


  • Antihistamine spray or nasal steroids for a runny nose resulting from allergies
  • Antibiotics if the nasal drip is resulting from a sinus infection
  • In the case of chronic rhinitis, a minimally invasive procedure known as ClariFix® or cryoablation is effective
  • Anticholinergic nasal spray for a runny nose resulting from vasomotor rhinitis
  • A vidian neurectomy is another form of treatment for severe cases of vasomotor rhinitis. It is a highly specialized technique used to cut the nerve in charge of the increased mucus production


Nasal Polyps

The nose and nasal airways can occasionally produce water-bag-like sprouts called nasal polyps. They result from inflammation and often do not pose a threat or cause cancer. Unless there is an inherent issue, they often do not hurt. Their growth may be influenced by allergies, aspirin sensitivity, or past bacterial infections. They might even be the root of some people's persistent or recurring sinus issues.


Nasal polyps come in various sizes and frequently do not show symptoms until they get big enough to obstruct nasal airflow. Note that there are other tumors in the sinuses and nose besides nasal polyps. Such lesions that resemble nasal polyps include antrochoanal polyps, mucocele, sinus tumors, and mucus retention cysts.


Clusters of nasal polyps can form, and those resistant to medical treatment might need them removed surgically. Symptoms of nasal polyps include:


  • Loss of smell and taste
  • Nasal congestion
  • Headaches
  • Runny nose
  • Excessive snoring
  • Postnatal drip


Note that people may have severe nasal polyps, characterized by eye complications like double vision and swollen eyes. Complications around the eyes, such as swelling around the eyes or double vision, may occur in persons with severe nasal polyps. Although severe sinusitis is frequently correlated with multiple nasal polyps, not everyone with sinusitis will experience polyp development. Since they are so minuscule, nasal polyps can only cause minor symptoms.


Causes of Nasal Polyps

The emergence of nasal polyposis has been linked to a few medical disorders. They include:


  • Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis (AFRS)
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Allergies (Hay fever)
  • Asthma
  • Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD)


Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis of nasal polyps takes place using a nasal endoscope, a tiny tube attached to a small camera that aids in looking through the nose. However, some further evaluation may be necessary. Laboratory tests or a CT scan of the sinuses are other forms of diagnosing this condition.


When it comes to the treatment of nasal polyps, surgery or medication is applicable. There are numerous other therapies that your rhinologist can recommend. These treatment options include:


  • Antibiotics for related bacterial infections
  • Allergy immunotherapy, including SLIT- sublingual immunotherapy and SCIT-subcutaneous immunotherapy
  • Nasal sprays, like Nasacort, Flonase, and Nasonex, to treat chronic rhinitis
  • Oral corticosteroids for managing inflammation temporarily
  • XHance and steroid sinus rinses, commonly known as budesonide sinus rinses
  • Aspirin desensitization for people who suffer from AERD
  • Nasal Polypectomy combined with sinus surgery aids in easing symptoms after surgery and optimizing the efficiency of medications. They are a form of maintenance drugs that control inflammation. They can be taken before and after as well as with or without sinus surgery
  • Monoclonal antibodies, like Xolair, Dupixent, and Nucala, are additional treatment options for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and severe type 2 inflammation with nasal polyps. They can be administered as a subcutaneous injection in a rhinology office or at home.


Other Symptoms That Show It's Time to See a Rhinologist

It is advisable to visit a rhinologist when you experience:


How Do Rhinologists Stay Up to Date with Advancements in Their Field?


Rhinologists ensure they are knowledgeable about the latest advancements in their field through multiple methods. One way they accomplish this is by actively participating in regional and national rhinology meetings, such as the annual American Rhinologic Society Meeting and the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meeting (COSM), where they have the opportunity to learn about recent developments and shared experiences from other professionals. Additionally, they dedicate time to reviewing journal articles, which allows them to stay informed on current research findings and advancements in medical and surgical techniques specific to rhinology. Moreover, rhinologists actively engage in multidisciplinary skull base disorder team meetings, enabling them to collaborate with experts from various fields and discuss the most recent breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of related disorders. Their commitment to these ongoing educational activities and interaction with fellow experts ensures that rhinologists stay up to date with the dynamic advancements in their field.


Consult a Professional Rhinologist in Louisville KY

If you have any warning signals mentioned above, you should immediately schedule an appointment with a sinus doctor near you. The faster you act when you discover a symptom, the sooner you can get the appropriate care and treatment to eliminate pain and distress.


We approach every patient with the care and expertise they deserve. Dr. Thomas Higgins will create a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. He is a fellowship-trained rhinologist in Louisville KY and Jeffersonville, IN, with expertise in handling nose, anterior skull base, and paranasal sinuses conditions.


Furthermore, Dr. Higgins researches these areas and continues to lead the way in surgical and management advancements for sinus disease. He also frequently treats complex sinus diseases that have not improved with prior medical treatment or surgery. Although there are several "Sinus Surgeons" in the U.S., Dr. Higgins is one of only a handful of specialists with advanced training in the field of rhinology that goes beyond residency.

 

Due to his experience, he can assist patients who have endured persistent issues despite having had several sinus surgeries and have been told there is no hope by other ENTs or "sinus surgeons." Dr. Higgins collaborates with expert ophthalmologists and neurosurgeons to frequently perform nose-based procedures for the skull base and eyes without any skin incisions.


So, don't hesitate to make an appointment with Dr. Thomas Higgins, MD, MSPH in Louisville, KY, or Jeffersonville, IN, to learn more about our expert rhinology services. We are dedicated to giving you relief for your nose, paranasal sinuses, and anterior skull base condition.



Thomas S. Higgins, MD, MSPH

Father. Husband. Sinusitis Nerd.


By Tom Higgins June 30, 2025
Ever wake up with pressure behind your eyes and struggle to breathe? Wondering if it will ever stop? Chronic nasal issues can make everyday tasks hard. Many people wait months for symptoms to go away. Others use over-the-counter meds for quick fixes. The truth is, persistent problems often signal the need for specialized care. Knowing when to see a sinus specialist can change your life. These health issues can mess with your sleep, work, and life quality. This guide will help you spot warning signs for expert treatment. We'll show you when your symptoms need more than primary care. This empowers you to make smart health choices. Key Takeaways Persistent symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks may require specialized evaluation Recurring infections or severe headaches often indicate the need for expert care A sinus specialist offers advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options Early intervention can prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes Specialized care addresses root causes rather than just managing symptoms Professional evaluation helps distinguish between different types of nasal conditions Understanding When Your Sinus Problems Need Expert Care Figuring out when to see a specialist for sinus issues can be tricky. Sometimes, you might just have a cold or minor sinus infection that goes away on its own. But, knowing when it's time to get help can prevent a lot of pain. It's all about patterns and persistence . If your sinus troubles last more than a couple of weeks, or if they keep coming back, it's time to see a doctor. This is true even if you've tried over-the-counter meds. Many people think of chronic sinus issues as just allergies or something they have to live with. But, this thinking can lead to more suffering and health problems. Your quality of life is important, and constant nasal congestion shouldn't be normal. Think about how your sinus problems affect your daily life. Do you always need tissues? Do you have trouble breathing? Do you avoid social events because of your sinuses? If so, it's a sign you need expert help. Spotting these patterns early can stop problems from getting worse. Many people wait too long to see a specialist, letting their sinus issues get more serious. How often you get sinus problems matters a lot. If it happens more than four times a year, or if each episode lasts longer, you need to see a doctor. Remember : You don't have to deal with chronic sinus problems alone. A specialist can find the cause of your nasal congestion and offer treatments that general meds can't. Getting help early can lead to better results and faster relief. What Does a Sinus Specialist Do That Your Regular Doctor Cannot? Sinus specialists have special skills and tools that change how we tackle tough nasal problems. While your family doctor is great for general care, sinus issues need more advanced knowledge and tools. These go beyond what's usual in regular medicine. The big difference is in the training and technology sinus specialists use every day. They offer solutions that work when other treatments don't. ENT Doctor Specialized Training and Expertise An ent doctor has extra years of training after medical school. This is all about ear, nose, and throat issues. They learn a lot about sinus anatomy, surgery, and treatment plans. Most ent doctors spend five years in a residency program for otolaryngology. They do many procedures and get a lot of experience with rare conditions. Thanks to their deep knowledge, sinus specialists can spot early warning signs. They know how sinus health ties into the rest of the body. This lets them tackle the real causes, not just symptoms. The specialized training we receive allows us to see patterns and connections that aren't immediately obvious to general practitioners. Advanced Diagnostic Equipment and Procedures Sinus specialists use tools that give detailed views of your sinuses. These tools help find problems that regular exams miss. Key diagnostic advantages include: Nasal endoscopy for direct visualization of sinus passages High-resolution CT scans that reveal structural abnormalities Specialized allergy testing for comprehensive treatment planning Advanced imaging techniques that map sinus drainage patterns These advanced tests let specialists make detailed plans for your treatment. They can spot issues like nasal polyps or blockages that need special care. With their training and tools, sinus specialists can offer treatments not found in regular care. This includes surgery and allergy programs that can really improve your life. Common Sinus Conditions That Require Specialist Care Many patients need advanced care for their sinus conditions. These complex issues often involve several factors. They require specialized diagnostic skills and treatment approaches. Primary care doctors handle many health issues well. But, some sinus problems need the expertise of ENT specialists. These include structural abnormalities, persistent infections, or complex causes. Chronic Sinusitis and Recurring Infections Chronic sinusitis is a tough condition to treat. It involves inflammation lasting 12 weeks or more, despite standard treatments. Unlike acute sinusitis, chronic sinusitis causes ongoing symptoms that affect daily life. Patients often face recurring infections every few months. This creates a cycle of temporary relief followed by symptoms again. The underlying causes often include bacterial biofilms, fungal elements, or immune system responses that general practitioners may struggle to identify and treat effectively. Chronic sinusitis needs a thorough evaluation to find the root causes. Our specialists use advanced tools to identify specific bacteria, assess immune function, and evaluate structural factors contributing to persistent inflammation. Nasal Polyps and Structural Abnormalities Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths in the nasal passages and sinuses. They can block airflow and trap mucus, leading to recurring infections and breathing difficulties. Polyps often indicate underlying inflammation that requires specialized management. Structural abnormalities in the nasal passages create ongoing problems. These issues often develop over time or result from previous injuries. We evaluate each patient's unique anatomy to develop targeted treatment plans. Many patients don't realize that structural problems contribute to their symptoms. Proper diagnosis requires specialized imaging and examination techniques that help us identify specific abnormalities affecting sinus function. Deviated Septum and Breathing Issues A deviated septum occurs when the wall between nasal passages shifts to one side. This common condition can cause severe breathing difficulties. Many people live with these symptoms unnecessarily , not realizing effective treatments are available. Breathing issues from septum problems often worsen over time. We evaluate how structural problems affect airflow and sinus drainage. This assessment helps us recommend appropriate treatment options, from conservative management to surgical correction. These conditions don't have to be permanent sources of discomfort. With proper specialist care, we can provide effective treatment options. These options offer lasting relief and dramatically improve your quality of life. Early specialist intervention often prevents complications and reduces the need for more extensive treatments later. 7 Warning Signs You Need to See a Sinus Specialist We've found seven key signs that mean you need to see a sinus specialist . These symptoms often start slowly but show your body needs more help than usual treatments can offer. Many people wait too long to see a specialist. They try many over-the-counter remedies and basic prescriptions for months. Seeing a specialist early can stop your condition from getting worse and help you find relief faster. Chronic Nasal Congestion Lasting More Than 12 Weeks Nasal congestion that lasts over three months is not just a temporary problem. It shows there's inflammation or structural issues that need expert care. Patients often try many decongestants and home remedies without success. This constant congestion can hurt your sleep, focus, and daily life . A sinus specialist can find the cause and create a treatment plan. Long-term congestion might mean problems like nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis, or structural issues that doctors can't fully diagnose or treat. Recurring Sinus Infections Every Few Months Having a sinus infection more than three times a year means there's a bigger problem. Antibiotics might help for a while, but they don't fix the real issue. We often see people stuck in this cycle. Each infection messes up their work, family life, and health. Recurring infections often come from structural issues, chronic inflammation, or immune system problems that need a specialist's help. A sinus specialist can end this cycle by finding out why infections keep coming back. They'll create a plan to stop future infections, not just treat symptoms. Severe Facial Pain and Pressure That Medication Cannot Relieve Severe facial pain and pressure that doesn't go away with pain relievers means serious sinus problems. This pain often gets worse when you bend forward or lie down. This pain can really hurt your work, sleep, and daily life . Even prescription pain meds might not help much. We know how tough this constant pain is. Severe, medicine-resistant pain often means deep sinus inflammation, structural issues, or complications that need advanced care. Complete Loss of Smell or Taste for Extended Periods Not being able to smell or taste for weeks or months is very concerning. It shows serious inflammation or structural problems in your nasal passages. Losing your sense of smell or taste affects more than just your food enjoyment. It can also make you less safe by not being able to smell gas leaks, smoke, or spoiled food . Many people also feel emotionally down because of this. We treat this symptom quickly because long-term loss can be permanent. Specialized treatment can often bring back these important senses if done soon enough. Other warning signs include thick nasal discharge, severe headaches that get worse when bending forward, unexplained upper tooth pain, and chronic fatigue from poor sleep. When you have many symptoms together, it's clear you need specialist care . How a Sinus Specialist Diagnosis Differs from Primary Care We offer detailed exams that go beyond what your family doctor can do. While your doctor might use basic tools, we use advanced tech to see inside your sinuses. Our process starts with nasal endoscopy . This lets us see into your nasal passages. It shows issues like deviated septum , polyps, or inflammation that regular doctors can't see. We also use CT scans to get detailed images of your sinuses. These scans reveal structural problems and blockages. Most primary care offices don't have this technology. The main difference is depth. We find the cause of your sinus problems, not just treat symptoms. Comprehensive allergy testing is another tool we use. Many sinus problems come from allergies that regular doctors might miss. We test for specific allergens that could be causing your symptoms. Here's how our approach compares to primary care: We take time to understand your medical history and symptoms. This helps us create treatment plans that really work for you. Our training lets us spot signs that general doctors might miss. We know how sinus conditions and lifestyle factors affect your symptoms. This leads to a precise diagnosis and effective treatment. We target the exact problem, not just manage symptoms. Advanced Treatment Options Only Specialists Can Provide When standard treatments don't work, specialized sinus care offers advanced solutions. We have innovative procedures and programs that tackle the root of your sinus issues. These specialized treatment options are only available from trained sinus specialists. They have the skills and tools for the best results. Our advanced care combines the latest technology with personalized plans. We choose each treatment based on your condition, symptoms, and lifestyle. This ensures you get the most effective treatment for lasting relief. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Severe Cases Endoscopic sinus surgery is a breakthrough for severe chronic sinusitis. It uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera for a minimally invasive approach. We can remove blockages and correct structural issues without harming healthy tissue. This sinus surgery offers faster recovery and less scarring than traditional methods. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week. The precision of endoscopic techniques targets problem areas while preserving healthy tissue. Balloon Sinuplasty for Less Invasive Relief Balloon sinuplasty is a great option for those seeking less invasive treatments. It gently opens blocked sinus pathways with a small balloon catheter. We insert the balloon, inflate it to widen the passage, and then remove it to restore drainage. This gentle sinus surgery option doesn't require cutting or tissue removal. Recovery is faster than traditional surgery, with most patients feeling relief within days. The procedure can often be done in our office under local anesthesia, making it convenient and comfortable. Comprehensive Allergy Treatment Programs Our allergy treatment programs target the underlying triggers of chronic sinus problems. We do thorough allergy testing to find specific environmental allergens affecting your sinuses. Based on these results, we create targeted treatment plans that may include immunotherapy options. Immunotherapy builds your tolerance to specific allergens over time. This treatment reduces the frequency and severity of sinus flare-ups caused by environmental triggers. We also teach you how to minimize allergen exposure in your daily life. Customized Medication and Therapy Plans We create personalized medication regimens using treatments not available to general practitioners. These may include specialized nasal sprays , targeted antibiotics, and advanced anti-inflammatory medications. Our approach considers your medical history, symptoms, and treatment preferences. We also offer additional therapies to complement our medication plans. We guide you on advanced saline irrigation systems and breathing exercises. Our recommendations help create optimal conditions for sinus health in your home and workplace. Our comprehensive treatment approach ensures you get the best care for your condition. We work closely with you to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed. This personalized attention helps achieve the best outcomes for your sinus health and quality of life. What to Expect During Your Sinus Specialist Consultation Your first visit to a sinus specialist is a big step toward relief. We know medical visits can be tough, but we aim to make it easy and helpful. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and well-informed. The visit usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. This time lets us really get to know your situation and plan a good treatment. It's a good idea to bring your questions and any past medical records about your sinus issues. Detailed Medical History and Symptom Assessment We start by going over your medical history. This helps us understand your sinus problems better and find possible causes. We'll ask about several important things: Symptom timeline: When did your problems start, and how have they changed over time? Trigger identification: What makes your symptoms worse? Previous treatments: What treatments have you tried, and how did they work? Daily impact: How do your symptoms affect your daily life? Family history: Do any family members have similar sinus issues or allergies? We also talk about your current medications. This helps us avoid any bad interactions and understand what hasn't worked for you. Physical Examination and Advanced Testing The physical exam includes special techniques not usually done by your primary doctor. We use tools made for checking the nasal passages and nearby areas. Our exam covers: External inspection: We look for signs of swelling, tenderness, or unevenness on your face Nasal cavity examination: We use a nasal speculum and light to check for inflammation, polyps, or other issues Throat and neck assessment: We check your throat for signs of post-nasal drip and feel your neck for swollen lymph nodes Based on what we find, we might suggest more tests. Nasal endoscopy is a key tool for us. It uses a thin, flexible camera to show us what's inside your nasal passages and sinus openings. The endoscopy is usually easy and quick. We might use a mild decongestant spray to help. This test helps us find blockages, inflammation, or other issues not seen in a regular exam. We might also talk about: CT imaging: Gives us detailed pictures of your sinus anatomy and finds blockages Allergy testing: Helps us see if allergies are part of your problem Smell and taste testing: Checks if you've lost these important senses Throughout your visit, we encourage you to ask questions and share your concerns. We want you to feel informed and comfortable with every step. By the end, we'll know exactly what's going on and can talk about treatment options just for you. Our detailed approach helps us tackle the real causes of your sinus problems, not just the symptoms. Red Flag Symptoms Requiring Immediate Specialist Attention Knowing the dangerous signs of sinus problems can save your vision and life. Most sinus issues are easy to handle. But, some warning signs show serious problems that need immediate medical attention . Here are the critical symptoms that need urgent care: High fever with severe facial pain - A temperature over 101°F with intense facial pressure Eye area swelling or bulging - Swelling around your eyes, with one eye bulging forward Vision changes - Double vision, blurred sight, or sudden vision loss Severe headaches - Sudden, intense headaches that are different from usual sinus pain Neck stiffness with confusion - Stiff neck with mental confusion or light sensitivity Other emergency signs include persistent nosebleeds with severe pain and sudden complete loss of smell or taste after a head injury. These signs often mean your sinus infection has spread to other areas. Orbital cellulitis and intracranial infections are serious complications from untreated sinus problems. When infections spread, they can harm your eyes, brain, and other important structures. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately . Don't wait for your regular appointment or try to treat these symptoms at home. Emergency treatment might include antibiotics, drainage procedures, or endoscopic sinus surgery to avoid permanent damage. Quick action can save your vision and prevent serious complications. We always suggest calling 911 or visiting your nearest emergency room for these red flag symptoms. Your health and safety are too important to delay treatment. Conclusion Living with persistent sinus problems can be really tough. But now, you know when to seek help. Your sinus specialist can offer more than just basic treatments. They have advanced surgeries and allergy treatment plans. These can solve the real issues behind your pain. Listen to your body. If you have chronic congestion, keep getting infections, or face severe pain, get help. Don't ignore loss of smell or taste. Getting better starts with a simple call. Sinus specialists use the latest tools and create plans just for you. They can help with surgeries or allergy treatments. We think everyone should be able to breathe easily and live without sinus pain. Don't let symptoms hold you back. Book your appointment today and start feeling better. FAQ How do I know if I need to see a sinus specialist instead of my regular doctor? You should see a sinus specialist if you have chronic nasal congestion for over 12 weeks. Also, if you get sinus infections every few months, or if you have severe facial pain that doesn't get better with medicine. Losing your sense of smell and taste is another sign you need a specialist. What makes an ENT doctor different from my primary care physician for sinus problems? ENT doctors get special training in ear, nose, and throat issues. They know a lot about sinus problems that regular doctors don't. They use advanced tools like nasal endoscopes and CT scans. They also offer treatments like endoscopic sinus surgery and allergy programs that primary care can't provide. What conditions require specialized sinus care? We treat long-lasting sinusitis, recurring infections, nasal polyps, and breathing problems due to structural issues. These complex cases need special skills and treatments because they involve infections, immune system problems, or anatomical issues. What happens during my first consultation with a sinus specialist? At your first visit, we'll review your medical history and do a thorough physical exam. We might use a nasal endoscope to look inside your nose. We'll also talk about getting a CT scan to check your sinuses. If allergies are a problem, we'll discuss testing for them. What advanced treatments can only sinus specialists provide? We offer surgeries like endoscopic sinus surgery and balloon sinuplasty. We also have allergy treatment programs and special medications like nasal sprays and antibiotics. Our treatments are tailored to your needs and lifestyle. Are there any red flag symptoms that require immediate specialist attention? Yes, seek immediate help if you have a high fever with severe facial pain, swelling around your eyes, vision changes, sudden severe headaches, double vision, or persistent nasal bleeding. These signs can mean serious problems like orbital cellulitis or intracranial infections. How long should I wait before seeing a sinus specialist? Don't wait if you've had chronic sinusitis for over 12 weeks, get infections every few months, or have symptoms that really bother you. Seeing a specialist early can help prevent your condition from getting worse. Can a sinus specialist help with my allergies that cause sinus problems? Yes! We offer allergy treatment programs to help with chronic sinus problems. This includes testing, immunotherapy, and personalized plans to address both your sinus symptoms and their allergic causes.
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Is your runny nose more than just a cold or allergies? Learn how to decode rhinorrhea symptoms—from infections and allergies to rare CSF leaks—and when to seek expert care. Dr. Thomas Higgins offers advanced diagnosis and treatment in Louisville and Southern Indiana.
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Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They can vary in size and may occur individually or in clusters. While they are usually painless, they can lead to various symptoms and complications. The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they are associated with chronic inflammation in the nasal passages. S
A woman is sitting on a couch holding her nose because she has a sinus headache.
June 7, 2024
Wondering how surgeons tackle chronic infected sinuses? From endoscopic sinus surgery to balloon sinuplasty, they have a range of techniques to alleviate symptoms and improve sinus health. Curious about the process? Let's delve into how these skilled professionals work their magic to bring relief and better breathing!
A woman suffering from a headache is sitting on a couch with her hand on her forehead.
May 10, 2024
Headaches are a common ailment that can disrupt our daily routines and cause discomfort. Whether it's a tension headache from stress or a migraine triggering intense pain, finding relief is essential. Read on to learn more about headaches and some effective strategies to help you get rid of it.
A young woman suffering from Sinus Infection
By Thomas Higgins March 18, 2024
Sinus infections (sinusitis) are common and may occur as a primary infection or due to an underlying condition. When a “sinus infection affects someone,” the common question coming from their friends and family is: "Is sinusitis contagious?” It depends on how your infection started.
A woman with red hair is blowing her nose while holding a thermometer and pills.
By Thomas Higgins February 10, 2024
When trying to find relief for nasal congestion related to sinusitis, two main types of decongestants are available: oral and nasal spray. But which one is better for you?
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