When to See an ENT for Chronic Sinus Problems

Most people experience sinus infections from time to time, especially during allergy season or after a cold. In many cases, our primary care team at Michigan Avenue Primary Care in Chicago, Illinois, can diagnose and treat these short-term infections quickly and effectively.

But when sinus symptoms linger, return several times a year, or start to affect your quality of life, it may be a sign of chronic sinusitis — a long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses that often needs more specialized evaluation and treatment.

That’s why we partner closely with Dr. Julian Dixon at Michigan Avenue ENT, who specializes in diagnosing and treating persistent or recurrent sinus problems. If the issues you’re experiencing feel like more than a typical sinus infection, making an appointment with Dr. Dixon may be the right next step.

What chronic sinus problems look like

Chronic sinusitis is when you have sinus symptoms lasting 12 weeks or longer, even after using recommended treatments. It can also manifest as recurring infections throughout the year. The underlying issue is usually persistent inflammation — not just an infection that never fully resolves.

Here are some signs to watch for:

• Nasal congestion or blockage that barely improves
• Facial pressure, fullness, or pain around the cheeks, forehead, or eyes
• Postnasal drip or nasal discharge that continues for weeks
• A reduced or lost sense of smell
• More than three or four sinus infections per year

If several of these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to move beyond at-home care and basic medications.

When it’s time to schedule with Dr. Dixon at Michigan Avenue ENT

While our primary care team manages most uncomplicated sinus infections, certain situations call for the expertise of an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist). Dr. Julian Dixon provides advanced evaluations and targeted treatments for patients whose sinus symptoms aren’t improving.

You should schedule an ENT visit if you are:

• Experiencing sinus symptoms that last longer than 12 weeks
• Having repeated sinus infections throughout the year
• Not responding to antibiotics, nasal sprays, or allergy medications
• Struggling with breathing through your nose on most days
• Noticing persistent changes in smell
• Dealing with symptoms that interfere with sleep, exercise, or daily activities

These patterns often indicate deeper issues such as chronic inflammation, anatomical blockages, polyps, severe allergies, or a deviated septum.

What an ENT evaluation includes

If we refer you to Michigan Avenue ENT, your visit with Dr. Dixon may include a more detailed look at the inside of your nasal passages and sinuses. Depending on your symptoms, your evaluation may involve:

• Nasal endoscopy to examine inflammation or structural problems
• CT scanning to assess sinus anatomy and blockage
• Allergy testing if environmental triggers are suspected
• A review of prior treatments and your overall health history

This thorough approach helps identify the actual cause of your sinus issues so you can finally get effective, lasting relief.

Before listing treatment options, it’s helpful to understand that chronic sinus problems usually require a more tailored strategy — and treatment often differs from short-term sinus infections.

How we treat chronic sinus problems 

Once Dr. Dixon identifies what’s driving your symptoms, your treatment plan may include advanced medications, targeted nasal therapies, or — when appropriate — minimally invasive procedures.

Some standard options include:

• Medical management, such as steroid sprays or irrigations
• Treatment for underlying allergies
• Balloon sinuplasty to open blocked sinus passages
• Endoscopic sinus surgery for structural problems or nasal polyps

Simple infections don’t usually need this level of care, but it can be life-changing if you have chronic or recurrent sinus problems.

If your sinus symptoms keep coming back, last for months, or simply don’t respond to typical treatments, you don’t have to keep toughing it out. At Michigan Avenue Primary Care, we determine whether we can manage your symptoms in-office or whether you need a referral to Dr. Julian Dixon at Michigan Avenue ENT.

Call Michigan Avenue ENT or book your appointment online today so you can finally breathe easier and feel like yourself again.