Enjoy the Spring Weather without all the Sinus Pressure and Congestion

Spring is upon us. Seems like we just got relief from cedar season and now oak pollen has started. Let's talk about the best strategy to enjoy the nice spring weather this year without all the sinus pressure and congestion. Prevention is important. Follow the allergy counts and avoid the outside on extremely high count days. Run the recirculate on your car air conditioning to avoid the outside while driving. Rinse your nose with saline solution after exposure to wash away the pollen before you react. Over the counter antihistamines can be taken nightly as an excellent prevention. Prescription medications such as nasal steroids sprays and nasal antihistamine sprays are very effective for both prevention and treatment. A taper of steroids or a steroid "shot" given by your physician can be a life saver in severe cases. If you develop a sinus infection with your allergies early treatment with a decongestant and possibly an antibiotic may be necessary. With these guidelines Austin's outdoor enthusiasts can feel free to enjoy our beautiful spring weather. Daniel Slaughter, MD

Sinus Issues can Cause Snoring

Ever notice that sinus congestion can give you a bad nights sleep? There are so many medications over the counter trying to offer some relief and a good nights sleep for people with sinus congestion. Actually, there are studies demonstrating that chronic sinus issues and nasal blockage can lead to a disease called upper airway resistance syndrome. Patients suffering from this condition have snoring, sleep fragmentation, and have less of the deep sleep required to repair the body and the mind. Longterm it can even lead to heart disease and memory issues. There are now minimally invasive techniques such as balloon sinuplasty and turbinate reduction that can be performed as simple office procedures to relieve chronic sinus issues. Patients can enjoy the improved breathing during the day and rest assured that there sleep quality will make them ready for the day to come. If you have sinus issues and snoring, seek a consultation with an Ear, Nose, and Throat physician to review options that may work for you. Daniel Slaughter, MD