What is Sinusitis and what causes it ?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, the air filled spaces in the bones of the face and skull. The largest of these air spaces are in the forehead and cheeks and on either side of the nose.
Most cases of sinusitis happen as a complication of a cold or another infection of the nose or throat. Thick mucus blocks the normal draining process, causing the pain, headaches, face swelling and congestion of sinusitis.
People may have a fever, yellow-green nasal discharge and a decreased sense of smell. The symptoms can affect either one or both sides of the head. Severe cases may involve the eye.
Bacteria, viruses and fungi cause sinusitis. Common bacterial causes are Haemophilis influenzae, Moraxella cararrhalis or Streptococcus. Common viral casuses are rhinovirus, influenza virus and parainfluenza virus. Fungal infections are uncommon.
Sinusintis can be described asacute (symptoms less than 1 month), sub-acute (symptoms for 1-4 months) and chronic (symptoms more than 4 months).
Chronic sinusitis may be caused by a structural abnormality of your nose or sinuses. Nasal polyps, a deviated septum or abnormal drainage may be a cause of chronic sinus problems.
Bacterial sinusitis is treated with oral antibiotics for up to 3 weeks. Since antibiotics work differently, your doctor will choose an antibiotic that is right for you. Your doctor may decide to change antibiotics during your treatment depending on how you respond.
Viral sinusitis is not treated with antibiotics, since antibiotics will not kill viruses. Rather, your doctor will prescribe decongestants, anti-histamines and possibly a nasal steroid to treat your symptoms. These are often used in bacterial sinusitis as well.
Vaporizers and humidifiers are helpful in the treatment of sinusitis as well. Speak to your doctor about his or her preference about these machines.
Sinuitis can be acute, sub-acute or chronic.
Call the doctor if your symptoms persist more than ten days with treatment, if you have eye swelling or discharge or if your headache worsens.