Sinusitis is an allergic condition. It causes infection in the nasal and sinuses passage by inflammation. Sinuses are tiny air holes placed behind one’s cheekbones, forehead, and space-between eyes. Sinuses make mucus, a particularly thin and loose fluid. It defends the body from germs by catching and moving them. Bacteria or antigen causes the overproduction of mucus which end up obstructing the sinuses opening. During cold or allergies, excessive mucus becomes thick. When germs or bacteria grow inside the sinus cavity, which leads to viral or bacterial infections. The infection is normally viral and gets cured in a week without treatment.
Types of Sinusitis
Typically, there are three types of sinusitis:
• Acute Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis is due to the common cold. It stays for a brief duration. During viral infection, it stays for 1-2 weeks. In case of a bacterial infection, acute sinusitis stays up to 4 weeks.
• Subacute Sinusitis
Subacute sinusitis generally arises due to seasonal allergies or germ infection. Its symptoms stay up to 3 months.
• Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis occurs because of bacterial infection. It stays longer than 3 months. It is often less hazardous. Moreover, chronic sinusitis happens alongside structural nasal problems and persistent infections.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
The symptoms of sinusitis and the common cold are relatively similar. The symptoms include;
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache from sinus pressure
- Thick, dark mucus coming out of the nose
Treatment of Sinusitis
Some specific treatment for sinusitis may include;
Antibiotics :
Antibiotics are generally prescribed when the symptoms don’t improve within weeks. Antibiotic therapy is mostly given for 3-14 days. Doctors advise completing the routine so that the virus fully goes away.
Congestion :
Nasal congestion is one of the common symptoms of sinus infection. It is advised to apply damp cloths on the face and forehead. It keeps the pain subdued from sinus pressure. Drinking water helps to stay hydrated and thin the mucus. Over-the-counter (OST) medication like guaifenesin is used.
Surgery :
When medication doesn’t improve chronic sinusitis, surgery is prescribed. Surgery helps clear the sinuses, repair a deviated septum remove polyps.
Pain Remedies :
Sinus infection triggers pressure in the forehead and cheeks. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help.
Prevention of Sinusitis
Sinus disease develops after flu, cold, or any allergic reactions. Some prevention to keep in mind is:
- Regularly washing hands
- Eating fresh vegetables and fruits
- Take antihistamines medicine to cure cold or allergies
- Getting vaccine shot every year
- Limiting smokes, chemicals, pollen, or any other allergens
- Avoid getting close to people with the infection like cold and flu
Diagnosis of Sinusitis
Generally, doctors confirm the symptoms and do a physical examination before diagnosis. They look inside the nose for a sign of inflammation. Doctors also check for pressure by touching the cheek and head.
However, in the case of chronic infection, doctors prescribe tests. They examine the sinuses and nasal passages. These tests also show mucus blockage or any abnormal structure like polyps.
An allergy test specifies irritants that can result in allergic reactions. A blood test is provided to examine any infection that weakens the immune system like HIV.
A CT Scan shows a 3D image of the sinuses. While an MRI test makes a picture of the inner structure using magnets.
Suresh Hospital’s ../department of Allergy and Immuno System
An allergy occurs when the body reacts to foreign elements like pollen, dust, medications, soil. Symptoms like red eyes, dry cough, itching, blister, wheal. Doctors may suggest medications and skin allergy tests to slow down the irritation. At Suresh Hospital, we have all the clinical facilities that may help the patients with the condition. Tests include skin prick testing, patch testing, blood tests are performed. The allergy clinic at Suresh Hospital also performs immunotherapy too.