What is a SINUS?
A cavity within a bone or other tissue, especially one in the bones of the face or skull connecting with the nasal cavities.
Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses. Normally, sinuses are filled with air. But when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) can grow and cause an infection.
Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include the common cold, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the lining of the nose due to allergy to various things), nasal polyps (small growths in that lining), or a deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity).
Sinus Attack
Pain in the forehead or between the eyes.
Upper teeth ache
Face feeling full, nose stuffy and congested
Types of Sinusitis
Acute : Cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain that start suddenly and don’t go away after 10 to 14 days. It usually lasts 4 weeks or less.
Sub-acute : Sinus inflammation lasting 4 to 8 weeks.
Chronic : Inflammation symptoms that last 8 weeks or longer.
Recurrent : Several attacks within a year.
It’s more likely to get Sinusitis if you have:
Swelling inside the nose like from a common cold
Blocked drainage ducts
Structural differences that narrow those ducts
Nasal polyps
Conditions that make an infection more likely, such as immune system deficiencies or medications that suppress the immune system.
For children, things contribute to sinusitis include allergies, illnesses from other kids at day care or school, pacifiers, bottle drinking while lying on the back, and smoke in the environment.
The main risk factors for adults are infections and smoking.
Symptoms of Acute Sinusitis
Mainly :
Facial pain or pressure
Nasal stuffiness
Nasal discharge
Loss of smell
Cough or congestion
May be associated with:
Fever
Bad breath
Fatigue
Dental pain
It may be acute sinusitis if you have two or more symptoms or thick, green, or yellow nasal discharge.
Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis
Symptoms for 8 weeks or more:
A feeling of congestion or fullness in your face
A nasal obstruction or blockage
Pus in the nasal cavity
Fever
Nasal discharge or discolored postnasal drainage
May be associated with :
Headaches
Bad breath
Fatigue
Dental pain
Diagnosis
Nasal Endoscopy
Always consult your Family physician if you are having any of the above mentioned problems.
A thorough examination and some tests would help in establishing a Diagnosis.
Tests like X- Ray of sinuses or Nasal Endoscopy (A nasal endoscope is a tube-like instrument equipped with tiny lights and cameras, used to see inside your nose and sinus drainage areas.) or CT scan may be required.
Treatment
Acute sinusitis:
If you have a simple sinus infection, may be recommend to use decongestants and steam inhalations.
Over the counter medications should be discouraged and always consult your Family Physician.
Antibiotics to be started only after consultation with Doctor, and to be continued for 10 to 14 days.
The symptoms usually disappear with treatment.
Chronic sinusitis :
Warm moist air may help. Vaporization or Steam inhalation from a pan of warm (but not too hot) water. Warm compresses can ease pain in the nose and sinuses.
Saline nose drops are also safe to use at home.
Over-the-counter decongestant nasal drops or sprays should be discouraged and always consult your Family Physician.
In some cases, antibiotics or steroids may be needed.
Special cases like
Allergies : In case of allergies, antihistamine medicines may be required.
Fungal Infections : Anti-fungal medicines may be required.
Immune Deficiencies : Immunoglobulin (antibodies) may be required.
Lifestyle Changes
Drink more fluids and keep yourself hydrated.
Quit smoking.
Avoid allergens if known.
Avoid dust and pollution.
If Sinusitis Is not Treated:
Pain and discomfort leading to interference with daily activities.
Untreated sinusitis can lead to meningitis or a brain abscess and an infection of the bone.