What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is a swelling or inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow pockets between the bones between your eyes, behind your cheekbones, and in the center of your forehead. They produce mucus, which helps to keep the inside of your nose moist. As a result, dust, allergies, and pollutants are reduced.Healthy sinuses are packed with air. However, when they become clogged and filled with fluid, bacteria can thrive and create an illness.

This condition impairs the regular drainage of mucus and causes a stuffy nose. Breathing through your nose may be difficult, and the region around your eyes may feel puffy or irritated.

What are the different types of sinuses near the nose and eyes?

The paranasal sinuses are located in your head near your nose and eyes. They are named after the bones that provide their structure.

• The ethmoidal sinuses are located between your eyes.
• The maxillary sinuses are located below your eyes.
• The sphenoidal sinuses are located behind your eyes.
• The frontal sinuses are located above your eyes.

The biggest sinus cavity is the maxillary cavity, and it is one of the cavities that most often becomes infected.

Sinusitis symptoms

• Headache
• Ear pain or pressure or fullness
• Halitosis
• Dental pain
• Fever
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Cough
• decrease sense of smell
• Fatigue

What causes sinusitis?

Sinusitis is caused by a virus, bacterium, or fungus that swells and clogs the sinuses. Some specific causes are as follows:

• A weakened immune system as a result of illness or medication.
• A deviated septum. The septum is the line of cartilage that divides your nose. A deviated septum means that it isn’t straight, so that it is closer to the nasal passage on one side of your nose, causing a blockage.
• Nasal and seasonal allergies, including allergies to mold.
• common cold

How is sinusitis diagnosed?

Your healthcare professional will ask you several questions in order to compile a thorough medical history and learn about your symptoms. A physical examination will also be performed. During the exam, your doctor will look for edema, drainage, or obstruction in your ears, nose, and throat. To examine the interior of the nose, an endoscope (a tiny lighted/optical device) may be utilized. You may be sent to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist in some instances. If you need imaging, your doctor would prescribe a computed tomography (CT) scan.

How is sinusitis treated?

Since viral infections are the most common cause of sinusitis, treatment may not always be necessary. However, you could get some relief from your symptoms with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and home treatments.

If symptoms of sinusitis don’t improve after 10 days, your doctor may prescribe:

• Antibiotics (for seven days in adults and 10 days in children).
• Oral or topical decongestants.
• Prescription intranasal steroid sprays. (Don’t use non-prescription sprays or drops for longer than three to five days — they may actually increase congestion).

Long-term (chronic) sinusitis may be treated by focusing on the underlying condition (typically allergies). This is usually treated with:

• Intranasal steroid sprays.
• Topical antihistamine sprays or oral pills.
• Leukotriene antagonists to reduce swelling and allergy symptoms.
• Rinsing the nose with saline solutions that might also contain other types of medication.

Sinusitis prevention

Some of the treatment options for sinusitis symptoms may also help to avoid sinusitis. These include employing remedies your doctor may advise, such as steroid nasal sprays or allergy drugs, and washing your nose with salt water.

Avoiding items you are allergic to, such as dust, pollen, or smoke, as well as ill individuals, is advised. To lessen your risk of contracting the flu or a cold, wash your hands.

What complications are associated with sinus infection?

Although it is rare, untreated sinus infections can be dangerous by causing meningitis or invading the brain, eyes, or surrounding bone. Meningitis is an infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges).

Lifestyle and home remedies

These self-help steps can help relieve sinusitis symptoms:

• Rest. This can help your body fight inflammation and speed recovery.
• Moisturize your sinuses. Drape a towel over your head as you breathe in the vapor from a bowl of medium-hot water. Keep the vapor directed toward your face. Or take a hot shower, breathing in the warm, moist air to help ease pain and help mucus drain.
• Warm compress. A warm compress on your nose and forehead may help relieve the pressure in your sinuses.
• Rinse out your nasal passages. Use a specially designed squeeze bottle, saline canister or neti pot to rinse your nasal passages. This home remedy, called nasal lavage, can help clear your sinuses.

Is sinusitis contagious?

Bacterial sinusitis cannot be spread, but viruses that cause sinusitis can. Remember to wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with others if you are sick, and sneeze or cough into your elbow if necessary.