Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses that occurs with an infection from a virus, bacteria, or fungus.

What Causes Sinusitis?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the skull which are behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes. Healthy sinuses contain no bacteria or other germs. Usually, mucus is able to drain out and air is able to circulate.

When the sinus openings are filled up with too much mucus. It makes it easier for bacteria and other germs to grow more easily.

Colds and allergies may cause too much mucus to be made or block the opening of the sinuses.

Sinusitis can be acute or chronic according to their presence. If it is for 4 weeks or less, it is called acute sinusitis, and if it is longer than 3 months, it is called chronic sinusitis.

The following may increase your risk or your child's risk of developing sinusitis:

•    Diseases that prevent the cilia from working properly

•    Changes in altitude (flying or scuba diving)

•    Smoking

•    Weakened immune system.

•    Keeping your head moist after taking shower

Symptoms

•    Bad breath or loss of smell

•    Cough, often worse at night

•    Fatigue and generally not feeling well

•    Fever

•    Headache, pressure-like pain, pain behind the eyes, toothache

•    Nasal stuffiness

•    Sore throat

Treatment

•    Apply a warm, moist washcloth to your face several times each day.

•    Consume fluids to thin the mucus.

•    Inhale steam 2 - 4 times per day (for example, while sitting in the bathroom with the shower running).

•    Massage your sinus.

•    If it is chronic, you need to see your doctor, for the necessary medication.

Prevention

The best way to prevent sinusitis is to avoid or quickly treat flus and colds:

•    Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, which will strengthen your immune system.

•    Reduce stress.

•    Wash your hands often, particularly after shaking hands with others.

•    Don’t smoke

•    Drink plenty of fluids to increase moisture in your body.

•    Take decongestants during an upper respiratory infection.

•    Treat allergies quickly and appropriately.

Sources: MayoClinic, Google Images