Sinusitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces in the skull. It can be acute (short-term, lasting less than 4 weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks). The condition leads to nasal congestion, facial pain, and mucus buildup.
1. Causes of Sinusitis
- Viral Infection – Most common cause (e.g., common cold).
- Bacterial Infection – Can develop after a viral infection.
- Fungal Infection – More common in people with weakened immune systems.
- Allergies – Can trigger chronic sinus inflammation.
- Nasal Polyps – Growths in the sinuses that block drainage.
- Deviated Nasal Septum – Structural issues in the nose leading to blockages.
2. Symptoms of Sinusitis
- Nasal Congestion – Difficulty breathing through the nose.
- Thick Nasal Discharge – Yellow or green mucus.
- Facial Pain & Pressure – Around the forehead, eyes, or cheeks.
- Headache – Worsens when bending forward.
- Postnasal Drip – Mucus dripping down the throat, causing cough.
- Fever & Fatigue (in bacterial sinusitis).
- Bad Breath (Halitosis) – Due to mucus buildup.
3. Treatment Options
A. Home Remedies (For Mild or Viral Sinusitis)
- Steam Inhalation – Helps loosen mucus (e.g., hot shower, bowl of steaming water).
- Saline Nasal Spray or Irrigation – Clears nasal passages (e.g., neti pot).
- Hydration – Drink plenty of fluids to thin mucus.
- Rest & Humidification – Using a humidifier keeps air moist and reduces irritation.
B. Medications
- Pain Relievers – Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.
- Decongestants –
- Nasal sprays (e.g., oxymetazoline) – Short-term use (no more than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion).
- Oral decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine) – Help reduce swelling.
- Antihistamines – If allergies are a trigger (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine).
- Steroid Nasal Sprays – Reduce inflammation (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone).
- Antibiotics – Only for bacterial sinusitis (lasting 10+ days with severe symptoms).
C. Advanced Treatments (For Chronic or Recurrent Sinusitis)
- Allergy Management – Allergy shots (immunotherapy) if allergies are a cause.
- Sinus Surgery (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, FESS) – Removes polyps or opens blocked sinuses in chronic cases.
4. Prevention & Lifestyle Tips
- Wash hands frequently to prevent infections.
- Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist.
- Manage allergies to reduce sinus inflammation.
- Avoid smoking & pollutants that irritate the sinuses.
- Stay hydrated to keep mucus thin and flowing.