I have been experiencing sinus infections approximately every 3 months for over two years now. The symptoms are as follows: severe headaches, mainly around the back and top of my head, and pressure around my eyes. The attack I have at present also presents stiffness in my neck and shoulders. Also, my back is quite tight in places, as if there are little knots everywhere. I have been on several courses of antibiotics which didn't work, an average severe attack lasts approximately 2-3 weeks.

Should I see a specialist?

Thank you for any assistance you can offer. I have found this site extremely informative.

Reply: -------------------

Specialty consultation with an otolaryngologist for the management of sinusitis is a reasonable consideration in the following situations:

1. Persistent sinusitis over several weeks which has failed to respond to usual first line measures including antibiotic therapy, decongestants, fluids, etc.
2. Recurrent sinusitis occuring 4 or more times per year particularly if typical episodes require more than 1 course of antibiotics to clear.
3. Complications of any sinusitis such as facial cellulitis, extension of infection into the eye, etc.
4. Presence of significant anatomic findings such as significant deviations of the nasal septum, nasal polyps, etc.
5. The presence of less severe but chronic nasal symptoms underlying a history of frequent acute sinus infection including nasal airway obstruction, alteration of sense of taste or smell, prolonged post-nasal drainage, etc.

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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis

NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.

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