DEAR DR. GOTT: For years I have had sinus issues, only on the left side of my nasal septum. An ENT looked at my X-ray and said it was just allergies. I use a corticosteroid nasal spray and a mucous thinner. My glasses bother me at the left side of the bridge. They have been adjusted, taken apart and put back together, but nothing helps. I have gotten new glasses and they are the same. I also have had bouts of “TMJ” where the bow of my glasses hurt only above my left ear. High doses of ibuprofen will break the pain cycle after a while. I also wear a night guard over my teeth. I usually sleep on my right side as it helps to keep the left sinus draining. What is going on?
DEAR READER: Because you are having continued trouble despite treatment, I recommend you seek out a second opinion or request further testing.
An X-ray is an appropriate first step, but it is not designed to show soft tissue. You would benefit from a CT scan or MRI which can better show the soft tissues in your sinuses and determine if you are really experiencing swelling, pain and pressure from allergies (which would more typically occur on both sides, not just one) or if there is something else going on, such as nasal polyps. Polyps can also cause facial pain which may account for some of your TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain and the pain associated with your glasses.
Until the cause can be identified, I cannot offer you any specific advice regarding treatment. I can, however, offer some general advice about home remedies that you may find beneficial.
A great way to help break up and loosen mucus is to breath in moist heat. Chamomile flowers also provide a soothing scent and can help relax the body. Simply place some dried chamomile flowers or tea in a large bowl and pour boiling water over them. Drape a towel over your head and the bowl and breath in the vapors for five to 10 minutes. This can be done several times a day.
Another option is nasal cleansing with a neti pot. This method uses a mild, warm saline solution poured in one nostril where it then filters through the entire sinus cavity before exiting the opposite nostril. The process is then repeated with the other nostril. The salt and warmth help thin the mucus for easier expulsion. Simply follow the package instructions.
Some readers have had success using alfalfa pills to ease allergies. There are also several over-the-counter antihistamines and other medications such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin, and more that may provide longer lasting results than your nasal spray.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order my Health Report “Allergies” by sending $2 (US check or money order) and a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope to Dr. Peter Gott, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title when writing or print an order form from my website, www.AskDrGottMD.com.
