Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.

I have had chronic sinus drainage for over 30 years. The drainage comes down the back of my throat and causes me to hark many times to get it loose. Sometimes it is slimy and other times it is scabby. It can be a teaspoonful at times and when it is scabby, it scratches my inside palat. It varies in color from a grey to a grass green. I have nose frequent nose bleeds. My ENT is at a loss for a treatment. He discusses my problem with other Dr.s at conferences and none have seen anything like this.

Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.)

yes

If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:

I have taken numerous anti-biotics, sinus washes, nasal sprays. I have had several CT scans and MRI. I have even had C-DIFF because of the strong anti-biotic Clindymician.

What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.)

66 yrs of age. I am currently on allergy shots and hoped they would make a difference, bhut they have not.

Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)

NO

Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.)

I would like for someone to solve this mystery for me, so I can quit having this drainage and the facial and head soreness and pain that goes along with it.

Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.

C-Diff from anti-biotics and the possibility that the drainage will cause cancer. I was diagnosed with a staph infection in my Nasal Pharynx in 2010.

Appropriateness for EHC Program

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

• Infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS

AHRQ Priority Populations

None

Federal Health Care Program

None

Importance

Describe why this topic is important.

It is an ongoing health probelm with me, for which I would someone to take care of.

What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.)

Items in the Media.

Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.)

no

If yes, please explain:

Potential Impact

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?

A cure?

Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.

As soon as possible.

Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

none

Nominator Information

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate)

A cure?

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?

Individual

Please tell us how you heard about the Effective Health Care Program

Good Housekeeping Magazine.