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As a board-certified ENT specialist, Dr. Kalpana DePasquale at St. Augustine Ear, Nose & Throat in Florida is uniquely trained to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of nasal and sinus disorders, including sinusitis. Dr. DePasquale will conduct a comprehensive exam, which may include a specialized test called sinus endoscopy and/or referral for a CT scan, to pinpoint the cause of your problem. Dr. DePasquale will then recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your individual needs.
The symptoms of sinus infections and nasal problems can greatly affect your quality of life. Nasal obstruction, congestion, facial pressure and pain, coughing, post nasal drip and diminished sense of smell are all typical of chronic sinusitis. Acute sinus infections, however, more commonly include sinus headaches, facial pain, and fever. Both chronic and acute sinus infections require medical care. In some cases, nasal/sinus troubles are the result of allergies, viruses, deviated septum, nasal blockage or nasal polyps. Since the respiratory tract is “one system,” any disease or condition affecting the nose and sinuses can also affect the larynx, trachea and lungs, and vice versa. For example, a chronic cough can be the result of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Correcting problems. Providing relief.
Dr. DePasquale expertise also includes treatments for other causes of nasal obstruction, including:
Deviated Septum
The septum is the wall that divides the nose down the middle to form the nostrils. People with deviated septum have a severely off-center or crooked septum that can lead to difficulty breathing or obstructed breathing in one nostril, snoring, sleep apnea, and sinus infections. Treatments can range from medications to septoplasty surgery to correct a deviated septum. Learn more about deviated septum in our Patient Education Library.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal Polyps are small growths that form in the nasal passageways following long-term irritation from allergies or sinus infections. Nasal polyps can make it difficult to breathe and smell. Symptoms may be relieved with medications or surgical removal may be used in severe cases. Learn more about nasal polyps.
Enlarged Inferior Turbinate
The inferior turbinates are structures located inside the nose in the nasal airway. They act to humidify air and collect dust during breathing. A cold or other problem can cause the turbinate to swell and cause congestion. In some people the inferior turbinate remains enlarged, causing chronic obstruction. If medications fail to reduce the size of the turbinate, a variety of surgeries can be used to correct it to restore free breathing.
For more information on nasal and sinus conditions or to schedule your personal appointment, call St. Augustine Ear, Nose & Throat today at (904) 461-6060.