Here are the causes and symptoms of Sinusitis as well as the treatment
Sinusitis, also called sinus infection, is a common problem among many and here are the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this.
Sinus infection is an inflammation of the sinuses. Often, it is caused by bacterial infection or sometimes viruses and fungi (molds) cause it while some people with allergies can have an allergic fungal sinus infection.
Those who have a weak immune system are prone to this health problem. According to the article from acaai.org, acute sinus infection lasts three to eight weeks. Beyond this period of time, it is already called chronic.
Common Symptoms
- Postnasal drip
- Discolored nasal discharge (greenish in color)
- Nasal stuffiness or congestion
- Tenderness of the face (particularly under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose)
- Frontal headaches
- Pain in the teeth
- Coughing
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
Treatment
Antibiotics
– usually taken from 3 to 28 days, depending on the type of antibiotic
– help eliminate a sinus infection by attacking the bacteria that cause it
– over-the-counter medications can help provide relief
Nasal decongestant sprays
– can be helpful if used for no more than three to four days
– shrink swollen nasal passages, facilitating the flow of drainage from the sinuses
– overuse of topical nasal decongestants can result in a dependent condition
Antihistamines
– block inflammation caused by an allergic reaction
Nasal decongestants and antihistamines
– only use these drug combination when prescribed by your allergist
Topical nasal corticosteroids
– prevent and reverse inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and sinus openings
– also effective in shrinking and preventing the return of nasal polyps
– could be used over long periods of time without developing “addiction”
Nasal saline washes
– can help clear thickened secretions from the nasal passages
Surgery
– surgery may be recommended as a last resort when the drug therapies did not work