I am a 65 year old woman and I suffer from chronic sinus infections. More than a year ago I was operated on by the ENT doctor, but new infections are still developing. Antibiotics help as long as I take them, but then it comes back. A month ago I had a jaw wash, but that didn’t really help either. I’m thinking about going to another ENT doctor. Does that make sense?
Anonymously
Joris Bartstra, journalist with medical diploma
The sinuses in the nose, jaw and forehead form an intricate maze. They contain mucus-producing cells and cilia that sweep the mucus out. If the mucous membranes swell, cavities can be closed, the mucus builds up and the number of bacteria grows. The ENT doctor can surgically make an opening, but it also damages the mucous membrane and the cilia cells that mucus ‘swipe’ in the right direction. For this reason, doctors are usually reluctant to intervene surgically and prefer to try to ‘calm’ the area with antibiotics or anti-inflammatories, so that the mucosa can function normally again. Rinsing the nose regularly can also help. Smoking is taboo because it paralyzes the cilia. I can imagine that ENT doctors differ among themselves in their advice and in their willingness to intervene ‘aggressively’. Therefore, a second opinion always yield something.
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