Sinus Infection in Long Beach, Lakewood, and Los Alamitos, CA
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become inflamed or infected, often leading to discomfort and difficulty breathing. At Tan Head and Neck Center in Long Beach, California, our experienced ENT specialists, Jesse W. Tan, MD, FACS, Jesus K. Tan, MD, FACS, and Rose J. Eapen, MD, FACS, provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for both adult and pediatric sinus infections.
Understanding Sinus Infections
Sinus infections can be acute or chronic. Acute sinusitis often develops quickly following a cold or upper respiratory infection and typically resolves within a few weeks. Chronic sinusitis persists for 12 weeks or longer and may require more specialized care. Common causes include viral or bacterial infections, allergies, structural issues, or nasal polyps.
Symptoms of Sinus Infections
Patients with sinus infections may experience:
- Facial pain or pressure, especially around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes
- Nasal congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose
- Thick nasal discharge, often yellow or green
- Headache
- Postnasal drip causing sore throat or cough
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Fatigue or low-grade fever
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the infection.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
We need to know what we’re dealing with to provide the right treatment. The ENT team at Long Beach’s Tan Head and Neck Center performs thorough evaluations, which may include:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Physical examination of the nose and sinuses
- Nasal endoscopy for direct visualization of the sinus passages
- Imaging studies, such as CT scans, in chronic or complicated cases
This comprehensive approach helps determine whether the infection is bacterial, viral, or related to structural or allergic issues.
Treatment Options
Treatment for sinus infections depends on the cause and severity:
- Acute viral sinusitis usually improves with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter symptom relief medications.
- Bacterial sinusitis may require a course of antibiotics.
- Chronic sinusitis or structural issues may benefit from nasal corticosteroids, saline irrigation, or, in some cases, minimally invasive surgical procedures to restore normal sinus drainage.
- Allergy management can also be important for patients whose sinus infections are triggered or made worse by allergic reactions.
Drs. Jesse Tan, Jesus Tan, and Rose Eapen work with patients to develop a personalized plan to resolve the cause of the infection and minimize recurrence of sinus infections.
Specialized Care for Adults and Children
At Tan Head and Neck Center, patients of all ages receive specialized care. Rose J. Eapen, MD, FACS, focuses on pediatric ENT concerns, while Drs. Jesse and Jesus Tan manage adult and complex head and neck cases.
If you are experiencing persistent nasal congestion, facial pain, or recurrent sinus infections, the experts at Tan Head and Neck Center in Long Beach, California, can help. Schedule an appointment today to receive a thorough evaluation, effective treatment, and guidance for preventing future sinus problems. Call us at (562) 988-8818.