Sinusitis
What is sinusitis?
Sinuses are small cavities in the skull that are usually filled with air. A secretion is formed from the tissue with which they are covered, which protects the nasal passages from allergens and pollutants.
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the paranasal cavities, in most cases this is caused by swelling of the covering tissue or as a result of limiting the normal outflow of secretions from the sinuses.
This can cause headaches, swelling in the area above the nose, and if measures are not taken to control the sinusitis, it is possible for the condition to develop into a bacterial infection. The main types of sinusitis are two:
- Acute – lasts about 1 month;
- Chronic – lasts more than 3 months and can occur for several years. The cause of chronic sinusitis can be difficult to determine and therefore also difficult to treat.
The initial inflammation of the sinuses can be provoked by a simple runny nose or an allergy. In people whose immune system is weakened, sinusitis can also be caused by fungi.
Sometimes chronic sinusitis is the result of an improper nasal septum or polyps in the nose that prevent normal drainage of secretions from the paranasal cavities.
The symptoms of acute and chronic sinusitis are similar:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose;
- Prolonged runny nose;
- Headache; >
- Higher body temperature;
- Feeling of swelling in the supranasal area, especially when bending forward.
Sinusitis Treatment
The good news for anyone struggling with sinusitis is that regardless of the type of sinusitis – be it acute or chronic – there are effective treatment methods, that can help.
However, one of the biggest challenges in fighting sinusitis is identifying the specific cause of the inflammation. This is important because the cause of sinusitis often determines what type of treatment will be most effective.
For example, if your sinusitis is caused by an allergy, you may find that decongestants – the nasal drops that are commonly used to relieve sinusitis symptoms – are not particularly effective.
In such cases, it may be necessary to see an allergist for specialized treatment, which may include antihistamines or immunotherapy.
If you have been experiencing sinusitis symptoms for more than a week, it is important to consult your GP.
He or she may examine you and, if deemed necessary, refer you to an ENT specialist.
This specialist may perform additional tests, such as a CT scan or X-ray, to determine the specific cause of your sinusitis.
Medication Treatment
The most effective treatment for sinusitis usually involves a combination of medication and following a certain regimen.
Medications may include antibiotics if the sinusitis is caused by a bacterial infection, or steroids if the inflammation is particularly severe.
If your doctor determines that your sinusitis is the result of a bacterial infection, he may prescribe antibiotics.
In acute bacterial sinusitis, in most cases between 10 and 14 days course of antibiotic treatment is prescribed, and in chronic sinusitis the course of antibiotic treatment may need to last much longer .
But studies show that in very few cases of sinusitis, it is the result of a bacterial infection.
Most people with sinusitis resort to the use of pain relievers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, but if you do, remember that it is not recommended to take them for more than 10 days.
Decongestants help reduce the amount of secretion in the sinuses, they are available in pharmacies as nasal sprays or in the form of tablets.
Although medicines help in many cases of sinusitis, we can also help ourselves to relieve the symptoms and improve the condition.
Use air humidifiers in the rooms where you spend most of your time and clean them regularly.
Inhale steamy vapors or it’s easiest in the shower or bath to breathe deeply. The steam vapors will help facilitate the drainage of secretions from the sinuses.
If possible, place a warm, damp towel on your face, heating will relieve your condition.
Use nasal saline to keep your nasal passages moist.
Irrigate your sinuses by syringing salt water into your nose, so you clear out the secretions that clog your sinuses and keep them moist, and it’s important that the water is distilled or boiled.< /em>
Drink more fluids, so there will be less secretions and they will drain more easily.
Take a break when you have a sinus infection, take more time to sleep to recover.
Don’t overdo it with medications such as nasal sprays and painkillers because they will relieve your condition, but if you overdo it you can put yourself at great risk of causing other, much more serious illnesses.
Sinusitis Prevention
Sinusitis prevention is an important part of maintaining good sinus health and general well-being.
One of the most basic measures to prevent sinusitis is maintaining hand hygiene. Regular hand washing can reduce the risk of infections, including those that can lead to sinusitis.
In addition, it is important to avoid contact with people who have viral or bacterial infections that can cause sinusitis.
If you are allergic, it is important to control your allergies as they can lead to sinus inflammation. This may include avoiding allergens, using antihistamines or other medications, or receiving immunotherapy.
Humidity can also play a role in the prevention of sinusitis. Dry air can dry out the nasal passages and contribute to the formation of secretions, which can lead to sinusitis.
Using a humidifier in your home or office can help maintain proper humidity.
Finally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle — including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep — can improve your overall health and help prevent sinusitis.
All of these measures together can help protect against sinusitis and keep your sinuses healthy.
Sinusitis can be challenging and unpleasant, but with the right treatment and management, most people can control their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
It is important to consult a medical professional if you suspect you have sinusitis, especially if symptoms last more than a week or get worse.
