When your child has a stuffy nose and a lingering cough, it’s easy to assume it’s just another cold. But when those symptoms persist for weeks, it may be more than a simple viral infection—it could be chronic sinusitis, a condition that’s often overlooked in children.
At Integrative Ear, Nose and Throat, with offices in Port Jefferson Station and Syosset, NY, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric sinus issues using a gentle, compassionate approach. Dr. Michael S. Cohen, a board-certified ENT specialist with more than 25 years of experience, leads our practice with a focus on personalized, family-friendly care.
If you live in Suffolk or Nassau County and your child is showing ongoing sinus symptoms, it’s important to understand the signs and know when to seek expert help.
What Is Chronic Sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis is a condition where the sinuses remain inflamed for 12 weeks or longer, despite standard treatment. In children, this inflammation can interfere with normal breathing, sleep, speech development, and overall quality of life.
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, pediatric chronic sinusitis affects roughly 1 in 10 children, and its symptoms often overlap with allergies, colds, or asthma—making diagnosis more challenging without an ENT evaluation.
Common Signs of Chronic Sinusitis in Children
While adults often report facial pain or pressure, children may show different or less obvious symptoms. As a parent, be on the lookout for:
- Persistent nasal congestion lasting more than 10-14 days
- Thick nasal discharge that’s yellow or green
- Postnasal drip that causes coughing, especially at night
- Chronic cough not tied to colds or illness
- Mouth breathing and bad breath
- Snoring or restless sleep
- Swelling around the eyes, especially in the morning
- Complaints of headache or pressure
- Decreased sense of smell or taste
In communities like Port Jefferson Station, where kids spend time outdoors during high pollen seasons or in older school buildings with poor air circulation, environmental allergens and irritants can worsen sinus symptoms. Additionally, children in daycare or school settings are more prone to viral infections, which can further inflame the sinuses.
When to See an ENT Specialist
If your child has been treated with antibiotics or allergy medications and still shows symptoms after several weeks, it may be time to consult with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. At Integrative ENT, we offer:
- Thorough pediatric evaluations using gentle, kid-friendly techniques
- In-office imaging when needed to assess sinus structure and inflammation
- Allergy testing if environmental triggers are suspected
- Minimally invasive treatment options tailored to your child’s age and health needs
For children with chronic or recurrent sinusitis, balloon sinuplasty or adenoid removal may be considered. These procedures help restore natural sinus drainage and reduce inflammation without the need for invasive surgery.
Local, Compassionate Pediatric ENT Care
We know that parents in Port Jefferson Station, Syosset, and surrounding Long Island communities want answers and solutions—not endless rounds of antibiotics. That’s why our team takes time to understand your child’s full medical picture, lifestyle, and symptoms before recommending treatment.
Our warm, welcoming offices are designed to put children at ease, and our team is experienced in working with kids of all ages, including those with sensory sensitivities or special needs.
Contact Us for Pediatric Sinusitis Concerns
If your child has been struggling with ongoing sinus symptoms, don’t wait for them to “outgrow it.” Chronic sinusitis can impact sleep, development, and school performance, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a big difference.
Contact Integrative Ear, Nose and Throat in Port Jefferson Station or Syosset, NY today to schedule an appointment. Let us help your child breathe easier, sleep better, and feel their best—all year long.
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