Can ENT Help with Sinus problems?
Moms View Message Board: General Discussion: Archive November 2007:
Can ENT Help with Sinus problems?
I have not gone to an ENT Ever. I have had sinus problems the last 2 months. I went to my regular dr. I have no cold symptoms, no stuffy nose, no cough, but have had the sinus headaches, facial pain, check pain, eye pain etc.. Antiboticis didn't work, even combined with the Flonase. Went back to the dr on day 14., She said do the Flonase one week more and call her in a week, and if still not better she will refer me to ENT..Well I hate going to the dr, I dont know why. I have had no real critical problems ever. I guess because I dont really get sick, I think people will never really believe me when I do get sick. I know it does not make sense. Between sinus stuff and migraines, my head never feels normal. Its really getting me down.I am going to call my dr today when the office opens to get that referal. I did do a sinus xray and nothing was found. So if nothing was found will an ENT still be helpful? Are there other things they can do? I am so clueless about going to specialists.I am always so nervous about the unknown.
Most definitely, go to an ENT. They are specialists, and will know what to test you for. Have you had a CT scan of your face and head? He/she will probably order one. They are trained to know what to look for. How about your teeth? Do you keep regular dental appointments, and have work done when needed?
I go to the Dentist every 4 months. I actually have my cleanings done at the periodontist. About 12 yrs ago I had some gum problems and gum surgeries, that is all cleared up now. But, I go to them for routine cleanings and maintaince. I figured with all the money and time I have spent there, I want them to do my cleanings. No, I have not had any CTs done, only the basic sinus xray that was ordered by my dr.
I agree with Hol. Go see the ENT. If you lived in my area I would recommend the one I took my dd to for her ear! He's also going to se my ds for his deviated septum and snoring. He's excellent and knew exactly what to do. I have complete faith in his knowledge and ability. Let us know what happens and I hope you feel better soon.
You really need to see an ENT. It can be: Maxillary sinusitis - can cause pain or pressure in the maxillary (cheek) area (e.g., toothache, headache) Frontal sinusitis - can cause pain or pressure in the frontal sinus cavity (located behind/above eyes), headache Ethmoid sinusitis - can cause pain or pressure pain between and/or behind eyes, headache Sphenoid sinusitis - can cause pain or pressure behind the eyes, but often refers to the vertex (top) of the head Sinusitis is defined as chronic if it has been ongoing for more than 8 to 12 weeks. Chronis Sinusitis can persist after a viral infection, a severe allergy, or exposure to an environmental pollutant. Or it could be a bacterial or fungal infection that is not completely treated. (yes I know she has had you on stuff for a while now and that isn't likely but it if it is a fungal infection antibiotics will not clear it up) Chronic sinusitis of the maxillary sinus often results when an upper tooth abscess spreads into the sinus above. However, that isn't likely the case as you have regular dental care and it should have shown up on the Xray. I would have a specialist (ENT) take a look, for sure. They can do a nasal culture to rule out fungus or a few other things that may attach in the sinus and cause irritation. A CT scan will show things that do not come up on an Xray. Noses are their jobs, so you are more likely to come up with a more solid DX. Wishing you the best, feeling bad sucks for sure.
I called my regular dr for a referal yesteday in the morning, and still waiting for my follow up phone call..UGH...I will call again today.
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