Sinusitis

Definition of Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses or sinus walls. Sinuses are small air-filled cavities located in the bony structure of the face.

This disorder can cause thin mucus to flow out of the nasal passages. Sinuses can become blocked because they are filled with fluid so bacteria can grow and cause infection.

When infected, this cavity will fill with mucus and the mucous membrane will swell, creating a blockage.

The most common causes are bacteria and viruses. If the cause is a virus, this condition will become an infectious disease.

Causes of Sinusitis

This condition can occur due to viruses, bacteria, or fungi that cause sinus blockage or swelling.

Some common causes for chronic conditions include:

• • Nasal polyps. This tissue growth can block the nasal passages or sinuses.
  • Deviated nasal septum. A deviated septum (the wall between the nostrils) can restrict or block the sinus passages. This makes the symptoms worse.
  • Other medical conditions. Complications from conditions such as cystic fibrosis, HIV< and other immune system-related diseases can cause nasal obstruction
  • Respiratory tract infections. Conditions, such as colds, can thicken the sinus lining and block mucus drainage. The cause of this infection is usually a virus or bacteria.
  • Allergy. Inflammation that occurs due to allergies can block the sinuses.

Types of Sinusitis

The grouping of these conditions will be based on the duration of the symptoms that appear. Here is the explanation:

• The acute type lasts for 2 to 4 weeks.
• Subacute. This type generally lasts between 4 to 12 weeks.
• Chronic. The chronic or prolonged type generally lasts more than 12 weeks. This condition can also continue for months or even years.

Sinusitis Symptoms

Symptoms of this condition will depend on the age and type of the sufferer. In the chronic type, the symptoms can resemble those of acute sinusitis.

But chronic sinusitis causes milder symptoms and lasts longer.

However, in general the symptoms of this condition are similar to the common cold and symptoms can include:

• Decreased sense of smell.
• Fever.
• Blocked or runny nose.
• Headaches due to sinus pressure.
• Fatigue.
• Cough.

Sinusitis Treatment

Most cases of sinusitis result from a viral infection and may not require treatment.

To relieve the symptoms of this condition caused by a virus, sufferers can take over-the-counter medicines and home remedies can help relieve the symptoms.

Sinusitis Prevention

Until now there is no definite way to prevent sinusitis. However, there may be several things you can do to reduce the risk, namely:

• Quit smoking and avoid inhaling other people’s smoke.
• Wash your hands more regularly, especially when someone around you has a cold and don’t touch your face until your hands are clean.
• Stay away from anything that can trigger allergy symptoms.

If sinus problems occur, try to have the problem checked regularly.

The doctor will determine the appropriate action so that this problem does not easily recur.