Sinusitis is an inflammation and swelling of the lining of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the facial bones surrounding the nose. It is usually caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.
This inflammation causes the sinuses to become blocked and filled with fluid, leading to symptoms such as pressure and pain in the face, headache, and nasal congestion or runny nose.
There are two main types of sinusitis: acute sinusitis, which typically lasts less than four weeks, and chronic sinusitis, which lasts more than 12 weeks.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
Sinusitis symptoms include:
- Runny nose.
- Nasal congestion.
- Bad breath.
- General fatigue.
- Fever and cough.
- Sore throat.
- Thick mucus and discharge from the nose.
- Temporary loss of smell or taste.
Types of Sinusitis
- Acute sinusitis, which appears suddenly as a result of a viral respiratory infection or seasonal allergies.
- Subacute sinusitis, which occurs as a result of allergies or bacterial infections.
- Chronic sinusitis, which occurs as a result of bacterial infections, one of the most common causes, and can also result from asthma or chronic allergies.
- Bacterial sinusitis, which requires antibiotics for treatment and causes thick, yellow or green nasal discharge.
- Viral sinusitis, whose symptoms are similar to a common cold, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing.
- Recurrent sinusitis, which occurs as a result of experiencing four or more episodes of acute sinusitis.
- Allergic sinusitis, whose symptoms appear suddenly and may persist chronically throughout the year.
Causes of Sinusitis
Sinusitis is most often caused by viral infections such as the common cold and flu, or bacterial infections, which can lead to swelling in the sinuses.
Allergies to triggers like dust, pollen, or smoke, or structural problems in the nose, can also cause inflammation and increase the risk of developing sinusitis.
Factors that Increase the Risk of Sinusitis
- Structural problems such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps can obstruct normal mucus drainage and increase the risk of inflammation.
- Chronic diseases such as asthma and cystic fibrosis.
- A weakened immune system increases the risk of developing sinusitis.
- Smoking increases the risk.
- Using antihistamines.
- Upper respiratory infections such as viral colds.
What are the complications of sinusitis
Sinusitis can lead to several complications, including:
- If left untreated, it can cause serious complications, especially in individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or weakened immune systems.
- Vision problems, as the infection can spread to the eye socket and cause blurred vision.
- Meningitis, where the infection can spread to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
- Cavenarian sinus thrombosis, a blood clot in the venous sinus of the brain, which can obstruct blood flow to the brain.
Treatment of Sinusitis
The treating physician will determine the appropriate treatment for sinusitis based on the severity of the infection. They may prescribe steroid nasal sprays to reduce irritation and swelling, and antihistamines to alleviate associated symptoms.
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, along with nasal irrigation to cleanse the sinuses. The doctor may also recommend drinking plenty of fluids, inhaling steam, and using warm compresses.
In chronic and complex cases, the patient may require endoscopic surgery, where the doctor uses a thin tube with a camera (endoscope) to remove the tissue causing the obstruction and improve air and mucus drainage.
Medications that treat sinusitis
- Flixonase nasal spray.
- Sinupret Forte tablets.
- Balkis nasal drops.
- Zalastin nasal spray.
- Ultramox tablets.
- Zalastin nasal spray.
- Salbovent tablets.
- Vendexine syrup.
How to prevent sinusitis
You can prevent sinusitis by following these tips:
- Get the annual flu vaccine and all other required vaccinations.
- Use saline nasal sprays to clear your nasal passages.
- Avoid contact with people who have colds and respiratory infections.
- Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated and thin mucus.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
- Humidify the air in your home and keep it clean.
- Clean your nasal passages thoroughly and gently.
- Avoid allergens such as dust and pet dander.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Eat a healthy diet.
Article Summary
Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the sinuses. This inflammation causes the sinuses to become blocked and filled with fluid, leading to symptoms such as pressure, facial pain, and headaches.
Treatment for sinusitis depends on the severity of the inflammation. A doctor may prescribe steroid nasal sprays to reduce irritation and swelling, as well as allergy medications.