Sinusitis is a condition that affects the nasal passages and sinuses. This type of infection may cause pain or discomfort, as well as various other symptoms. As such, it is important to take care of your sinuses so you can avoid this condition in the future. The good news is that there are many things you can do to help relieve your symptoms and prevent future infections. Keep reading to learn more about sinusitis, its symptoms, and how you can manage it.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a condition caused by an infection of the nasal passages. In some cases, the infection may also affect the sinuses. Sinusitis symptoms can vary but may include pain or pressure in the face, increased mucous production, a decreased sense of smell, a runny or stuffy nose, and headaches. In severe cases, sinusitis may cause fever, difficulty breathing, and severe pain in the chest. Sinusitis is common in people who have abnormal nasal allergies, certain pre-existing diseases or are taking certain medications.
Causes of sinusitis
● Allergies – Allergens like dust, animal dander, food items, or pollens may cause inflammation in the nasal passages if you have an allergy to them.
● Antibiotics – Some antibiotics, like amoxicillin, may increase the risk of developing sinusitis due to their antiglycaconase property.
● The excessive blowing of your nose – Blowing your nose excessively can cause irritation in the nasal passages and may make you more likely to develop a sinus infection.
● Sinus surgery – Having surgery on your sinuses, like a sinus repair or rhinosinus surgery, may increase your risk of developing sinusitis.
● Poor oral hygiene – Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily is essential for good oral hygiene. If you don’t, bacteria from your mouth may get into your nose, which may cause sinusitis.
Symptoms of sinusitis
- Pain or pressure in one or both cheeks
- Increased mucous production – Nasal discharge, facial swelling, and headache are all signs of increased nasal mucous production.
- A runny or stuffy nose – A runny nose can cause symptoms like pressure and pain, difficulty sleeping, and a decrease in the sense of smell.
- Snoring – Snoring may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as sleep apnea or enlarged tonsils. Discuss these issues with your doctor.
Home remedies for sinusitis
- Turmeric – Turmeric is a natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory that can help reduce inflammation and ease pain caused by sinusitis.
- Ginger – Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease pain and reduce mucous production.
- Olive oil nasal sprays – These help to reduce nasal congestion and clear your nasal passages.
- Vicks inhalers – These are commonly used for nasal congestion due to colds or the flu, but can help to reduce sinusitis-related pain and inflammation.
- Drop doses of vitamin C – Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may help to reduce the duration and severity of a sinus infection.
Tips to manage sinusitis
- Cold remedies are a safe way to reduce nasal congestion if you have a cold or the flu. However, they should not be used if you have a sinus infection as they may make the symptoms worse.
- Follow your doctor’s advice when taking antibiotics. They should only be taken when necessary, and for the shortest duration possible.
- Home remedies should only be used for a short time if they are helping to reduce sinusitis symptoms. If they are not helping, talk to a sinus doctor in Dallas area about other treatment options.
- Make sure your room is cool and humid. This can help to reduce nasal congestion and is a good treatment option for those with seasonal allergies or allergies caused by indoor air pollution.
- Ask your doctor about nasal breathing exercises. These can help to open your nasal passages and make breathing easier.
Conclusion
Sinusitis is a common condition that affects the nasal passages and sinuses. Sinusitis symptoms can include pain or pressure in the face, increased mucous production, a decreased sense of smell, a runny or stuffy nose, and headaches. The infection may also affect the sinuses. If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor determine the cause and get treated. Having good oral hygiene, limiting your exposure to triggers, using cold sprays, and keeping your room cool may help to manage your symptoms. There are many things you can do to help relieve your symptoms and prevent future infections. Make sure your room is cool and humid, avoid blowing your nose too much, wear a humidifier in your room (if possible), and follow your doctor’s treatment advice.
