Sinusitis affects more than 3.7 million Americans and yet there
are still misconceptions about this disorder. Its symptoms like
cough, fatigue, nasal stuffiness, headache, thick yellow or green
stuff that runs from the nose or down the throat confuses it with
common cold. The only difference is that symptoms of sinusitis would
last longer than the common cold. Sinusitis is an infection of the
hollow air spaces behind the nose or either side called sinus. This
is usually caused by a bacterial infection preceded by a cold, allergy
attack or irritation by environmental pollutants.
Normally, mucus accumulating in the sinuses drains into the nasal
passages. Because of the common cold or allergy attack, your sinuses
become inflamed and are unable to drain. Congestion then occurs
leading to infection. Sinusitis can produce localized pain that
may indicate the sinuses (frontal sinus, maxillary sinus, ethmoid
sinus, and sphenoid sinus) that are infected.
There are two distinct types of sinusitis, acute and chronic which
has different origins. Acute sinusitis may be caused by a previous
viral infection which then causes swelling of the sinus membranes.
One or more of the sinuses may become blocked which will eventually
lead to an acute sinus infection. The most common bacteria that
cause acute sinusitis are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Hemophilus influenza,
type B and Branhamella catarrhalis.
Chronic sinusitis can be caused by asthma or any allergic disease,
pollution, defective mucous membrane, and weak immune system. Having
frequent sinusitis or having the infection for three months could
be diagnosed as chronic sinusitis. Symptoms are similar but are
less severe than those of acute sinusitis. Untreated chronic sinusitis
can cause damage to the sinus that would require surgery fro repair.
Sinusitis can be determined through the following symptoms:
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Runny or stuffy nose and itchy
nose and eyes |
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Tenderness of the sinus areas, sneezing and
coughing |
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Nasal discharge which is either yellow and
green and with bad smell |
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Severe morning headache and bad breath |
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Pain behind and either side of the nose |
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Eye and facial pain accompanied by fever |
Sinusitis can be hard to get rid of but it can be prevented. Here
are some preventive measures:
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Humidifiers can give relief; installing one will
be an advantage. |
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If you want an even temperature, air conditioners can help. |
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Allergic persons should avoid smoking and other air pollutants.
Drinking alcohols should also be avoided since it can also cause
the nasal membrane to swell |
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Severe morning headache and bad breath |
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Still the best source of prevention is to consult your doctor.
He will help you take the necessary steps to limit your allergy
symptoms that may lead to sinusitis. |
Sinusitis can be treated in different ways nowadays. Pain relievers
are the most common which are available over the counter. These
decongestants and sprays could relive congestion but it only last
for a day or two. Inhaling steam or using saline drops on the other
hand can help relive sinus discomfort. But the most effective treatment
is the use of appropriate antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.
Having a chronic sinusitis would even prescribe an intensive antibiotic
therapy. Surgery is sometimes necessary to remove physical obstructions
that may contribute to sinusitis.
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