Sinus Problems Q&A for Sinus Advice

Allergy sufferer needs sinus relief

by Lori Brehm and Murray Grossan, M.D.

QUESTION:
I would think someone else would have this similar type of problem. My nasal passages get stuffy, especially when I am sleeping. I have had allergy problems for the past couple of years. Currently, I take Zyrtec. In January I started immunology shots. I am allergic to pollen, mold, dust, animals, wheat, and yeast. I have changed my diet to avoid dairy products, wheat, yeast, vinegar products, and nuts. Last week, I purchased a Whirlpool Whispure air purifier for the bedroom.

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My current allergist or previous regular doctor cannot tell me why one side of my nose is stuffed closed in the morning, while the other side is fine. It is not always the same side of the nose. Due to the stuffy nose I don't sleep well and often I am tired in the morning. I try to sleep on my side or back.

Any reasons for this condition or suggestions would be appreciated.

ANSWER:
What you have is enlarged turbinates, the shelves on the side of the nose. It is normal to have one side open at a time, that is the mechanism for turning during the night when you sleep. What you are describing sounds like your membranes are stretched out of shape. If this is the case, it would explain why you don't respond to treatment. Ask your doctor about trying one of the cortisone sprays - Flonase or Rhinocort - but I think the "elasticity" is gone and may require a procedure from the ENT doctor.

Some procedures he may suggest:

• Somnoplasty to the turbinates
• Kenalog injection
• Submucus resection of the turbinates.

Best to you,
Murray Grossan, M.D.

please visit ent-consult.com; Hydromedonline.com; TinnitusRelief.net

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First Published: July 2001
Updated: April 2007

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