Do Symptoms Vary Between Episodes?

The symptoms of RARS can vary between episodes in several ways. Here are some key points regarding how these symptoms may change:

1. Severity: The intensity of symptoms can differ from one episode to another. Some episodes may present with mild symptoms, while others could be more severe and debilitating.
2. Duration: The length of time that symptoms last can vary. Generally, symptoms resolve within 30 days between episodes, but some episodes might last longer or be shorter than others.
3. Symptom Type: While common symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, headaches, and thick nasal discharge usually occur in each episode, the prominence of specific symptoms may change. For instance, one episode might feature more significant facial pain, while another might have more pronounced nasal congestion.
4. Associated Symptoms: Other associated symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, or a reduced sense of smell, may appear inconsistently across episodes.
5. Triggers: Different environmental or situational factors may influence the manifestation of symptoms. For example, allergies or exposure to irritants may exacerbate symptoms in some episodes but not in others.
6. Response to Treatment: How well treatments work can vary too. Sometimes a nasal spray or decongestant might help relieve your symptoms quickly, while other times it might not work as effectively.



If you notice changes in your symptoms from one episode to the next, discussing these with your ear, nose, and throat doctor can lead to more personalized treatment options and better control of your condition.

Diagnosing RARS

If sinusitis symptoms become frequent, it is important to ensure that the sinuses are the correct diagnosis as there are other conditions, such as headache disorders, that can feel just like a sinus infection. A sinus CT scan or a nasal endoscopy procedure can make the correct diagnosis. Knowing the correct diagnosis is imperative for receiving appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for RARS

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

1. Hydration and Humidification: Staying well hydrated helps thin mucus, making it easier for the sinuses to drain. Also, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping to keep nasal passages moist and reducing irritation.
2. Saline Nasal Irrigation: Using a saline nasal spray or a neti pot can help flush out mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.
3. Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can help relieve nasal congestion.

Medical Treatments

Several over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms of RARS:

1. Decongestants and Antihistamines: Over-the-counter decongestants can relieve nasal congestion and pressure, but they should be used carefully and not for long periods due to possible side effects. Antihistamines can also help by reducing congestion and sneezing, especially if allergies are causing your symptoms.
2. Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate facial pain and headaches.
3. Nasal Corticosteroids: Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses. Improving symptoms and preventing future episodes.

If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, your ENT doctor may prescribe stronger medications:

Antibiotics: In cases where a bacterial infection is suspected, generally after 7-10 days of symptoms, healthcare providers may prescribe antibiotics. It’s important to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, which are the most common cause of acute rhinosinusitis.

Allergy Management

If allergies are a significant trigger for your recurrent sinus infections, managing these allergies can help reduce the frequency of RARS episodes. Immunotherapy may be recommended to build tolerance to specific allergens over time. It involves administering increasing doses of the allergen through injections (subcutaneous immunotherapy) or under the tongue (sublingual immunotherapy).

Surgical Interventions

In some cases, when medical treatments and lifestyle changes are ineffective, surgical options may be considered:

a. Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

This minimally invasive procedure involves using an endoscope to remove blockages in the sinuses and improve drainage. FESS can be effective for patients with structural issues, such as tight sinus openings, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum. FESS has been shown to decrease the frequency of acute sinus infections.

b. Balloon Sinuplasty

This technique involves inserting a small balloon into the sinus passages and inflating it to widen the openings, allowing for better drainage. It is less invasive than traditional surgery and can be particularly effective for certain patients.

Top Sinus Surgeon in Seattle, Washington

If you're dealing with sinus infections, difficulty breathing through your nose, or severe facial pain, consulting a leading sinus expert like Dr. Greg Davis can be a significant step toward relief. Dr. Davis has been recognized consistently as a top rhinologist, and his outstanding reviews reflect the quality of his work. To schedule an appointment, please call 253-770-9000.