My boyfriend has had sinus problems since birth. Apparently his sinuses are too small which causes breathing problems, constant running nose, or stuffiness. His brother, who had the same condition, had surgery but they apparently grew back within 2 years -- and it was painful. Is there anything new, like laser surgery?

The size, and even number, of sinuses varies from person to person. Usually the size of a sinus does not pose a problem. However, anything that blocks the drainage holes can cause mucous to get stuck in the sinuses and sets you up for sinus infections. Often, such problems are surgically correctable, and functional endoscopic surgery, in which the natural drainage holes (ostia) are enlarged, is the preferred technique. Often, however, the problem stems from allergies which cause swelling in the nose and sinuses, blocking the sinus ostia, and setting the person up for repeated infections during his/her allergy season. Surgery won't correct that, and the preferred treatment involves allergen avoidance, antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, and/or allergy shots. Allergies tend to run in families, so that might be playing a role in your boyfriend's family. A good allergist could help him sort it out.

Good luck, Dr. White

-- Dr. Martha Vetter White, MD, is cofounder and director of research at the Institute for Asthma &Allergy in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, one of the nation's most active clinical research centers devoted to allergy, asthma, and sinusitis.

First published February 8, 2005
Last updated January 31, 2007
Copyright © 2004 Consumer Health Interactive