As we get older, our bodies change in a number of ways, including our nose, which gets longer and begins to droop a bit as cartilage around it gets weaker. These changes can cause a narrower passageway, which in turn can cause obstruction and a reduced airflow. Keeping this in mind, it’s not surprising that people over the age of 65 often suffer from chronic sinus issues.
In addition, some medications taken by seniors can actually cause sinusitis. For example, a common side of Calcitonin salmon, a spray used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, is sinus problems. According to Mayo Clinic, other medications, including antidepressants, aspirin, beta blockers, erectile dysfunction drugs, ibuprofen and sedatives can lead to nonallergic rhinitis, which while different than sinusitis, can still present many of the same nasal symptoms.
In the over 65 population, sinus symptoms aren’t really different from those of the younger folks. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery lists them as:
Of course, sinusitis at any age can be treated in the traditional way with prescription and over-the-counter:
However, while those medications come with their own inherent risks, the possible complications for seniors make them even more troublesome. For one, as people age, they tend to take more daily medication, which increases the potential for drug interactions. In addition, some of the drugs can increase problems with blood pressure and heart issues.
Medications can be used to treat the condition as long as a doctor is consulted and the full medical history is disclosed. However, even when this route is effective, it’s only temporary. When looking for relief, senior or not, wouldn’t you want a safe, permanent option?
At CT Sinus Center, we are Connecticut’s leading provider of a procedure called balloon sinuplasty, a noninvasive, in-house procedure done with local anesthesia, that promotes natural drainage and healing. With minimal downtime and few side effects (if any), balloon sinuplasty may be exactly what you’re looking for to treat your chronic sinusitis.
Call 860-BALLOON to schedule your appointment with our expert physicians and safely put an end to your sinus suffering. With offices around the state – Kent and Waterbury – we’re very easy to get to. We also accept Medicare and Medicaid so you don’t have to worry about mounting medical bills.
You didn’t get this far in life without making a lot of wise decisions; make another one by calling us.
For additional information on sinus-related conditions or treatments, read more about CT Sinus Center and take a look at our blog.
