Sinusitis affects people of all ages and can be painful, causing headaches, facial pain, nasal congestion, and a runny nose. It has many of the same symptoms as the common cold, but unlike a cold, symptoms may be caused by a bacterial infection.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinus cavities are located on either side of the nose, directly behind the nose, within the cheekbones, and behind the forehead and eyebrows. They are usually lined with a thin layer of mucus that traps dust, germs and other air particles. Miniscule hairs sweep the mucus to openings in the back of the throat. Sinusitis is caused when the hollow cavities within the cheekbones, which contain the mucus, become blocked. The mucus is then prevented from draining normally, resulting in an infection.
Those who have allergies, asthma or weak immune systems are at a greater risk for sinusitis.
Symptoms include:
- Facial pain
- Loss of smell
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Pain in the teeth or gums
- Nasal stuffiness or colored discharge
Types of sinusitis:
- Acute: This often accompanies cold symptoms, such as a runny nose or facial pain and can last 10 to 14 days.
- Subacute: Sinus inflammation that lasts 4 to 8 weeks.
- Chronic: Sinus inflammation lasting 8 weeks or longer.
- Recurrent: When sinusitis occurs several times within one year.
Treatment:
According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, up to 70 percent of people suffering from acute sinusitis recover without any prescribed medication. Decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers or nasal sprays can help relieve discomfort. Stay hydrated with water and get plenty of rest.
Check with your provider if you are concerned you are experiencing any of the above symptoms so he or she can determine if you have a bacterial infection in your sinuses that needs to be treated.
Source:
American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, www.acaai.org
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