DEAR DR. GOTT: I’ve had a sinus infection for the past eight years. I’ve had two unsuccessful sinus operations. I use a nasal steroid twice a day and a saline solution wash up my nose every day. I’ve had numerous antibiotics and still have the infection. I quit alcohol because my sinuses became more inflamed and swollen after drinking. A medical professional recently told me that the alcohol causes a rise of white blood cells into the infected sinuses, and that is what causes the uncomfortable inflammation. If white blood cells fight infection, should I drink some liquor moderately as a possible tool to fight this chronic infection?
DEAR READER: Alcohol prevents nutrients from feeding the immune system. Once in the blood, it will reduce the number and impair the function of the white blood cells (WBC) in the body. The lower the white-blood-cell count, the more difficult it becomes to fight off disease. Low white blood counts can occur with acute bacterial or viral infection, in cases of pernicious anemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, hormonal imbalances and alcoholism. Given the fact that alcohol decreases WBC, it would be futile for you to ingest any amount of alcohol in an attempt to raise your count and fight the sinusitis.
Because of the duration of your illness, you should be under the care of an ear-nose-and-throat (ENT) specialist who can determine whether it is caused by tooth infection, allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum or other medical condition. Perhaps you are unknowingly exposed to pollutants, such as tobacco smoke, cleaning solvents or chemical fumes. If necessary, imaging studies such as CT or MRI might be appropriate. You might undergo allergy testing or nasal endoscopy. Get to the bottom of the problem.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Medical Specialists.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order made payable to Newsletter and mailed to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title.
