Sinusitis is an infection of the cavities in the bones surrounding the nose. These cavities are connected to the nose by small, narrow channels. One out of every eight adults will suffer from sinusitis at some point in their lives. It is caused by a bacterial and viral infection that causes the sinus lining to become inflamed and fill with mucus.
Symptoms
In some cases, sinusitis symptoms may persist for weeks or months despite treatment. These symptoms may include pain, stiff neck, watery eyes, vision problems, and even mental changes. Regardless of whether symptoms are recurrent or not, they should never be ignored. To help your health care provider determine the appropriate treatment, make sure you record all sinus symptoms, including their severity and duration.
Sinusitis symptoms can also include fever, weakness, and fatigue, as well as cough, congestion, and mucus drainage from the back of the throat. A health care professional will diagnose sinusitis based on these symptoms, and may order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for sinusitis usually includes antibiotics, decongestants, and pain relievers. Other treatments may include heat pads and saline nasal sprays.
The duration of sinusitis symptoms depends on the severity and the underlying cause. The most common cause of sinusitis is a bacterial infection, but it can also be caused by fungi or viruses. People with a weak immune system are more prone to developing bacterial sinusitis than those with a strong immune system. In addition, people with allergies are prone to developing allergic fungal sinus infection.
Diagnosis
A thorough history and physical examination are important for the diagnosis of sinusitis. A physician must also look for symptoms of other diseases that mimic sinusitis and to rule out underlying disorders. A history should include a description of the type of symptoms experienced and any interventions required. Other diagnostic tests may be performed to help rule out other conditions.
Acute sinusitis usually begins with a bacterial or viral infection. If the patient’s symptoms persist for more than 10 days or if they get worse, then they most likely have acute sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis, on the other hand, is often caused by a chronic infection and inflammation. It can also occur as a side effect of a medical condition.
Diagnosis of sinusitis is difficult and time-consuming. There are many diagnostic tests, including a nasal swab, radiographs, and CT scans. However, these tests should be reserved for cases of acute sinusitis and should not be used routinely in primary care.
Treatment
A doctor can use a variety of different treatment options to treat sinusitis. These treatments are designed to reduce the inflammation and remove the underlying cause of the condition. Some treatments involve antibiotics, intranasal corticosteroids, or endoscopic surgery to clear blockages in the nasal passages.
Sinusitis symptoms include facial pressure, thick nasal discharge, and nasal congestion. The symptoms may last for up to four weeks, so you should see a doctor for a diagnosis. Your doctor can then discuss the best treatment options. In some cases, self-care measures may help you relieve your symptoms. However, if your condition continues to get worse, you may need stronger treatments.
Medications for sinusitis are available over the counter or by prescription. A decongestant spray may help with the pain and pressure caused by the inflammation. However, you should not take these medications for more than two to three days. They may cause rebound congestion, lead to addiction, and increase the risk of side effects.
Prevention
Prevention of sinusitis is important for avoiding the condition and its discomfort. In young children, the nasal passages are smaller, and as a result, they are more susceptible to respiratory infections. In fact, 10% to 15% of young children will suffer from 12 or more colds per year. Sinusitis in children is often associated with other problems such as ear infections.
The first line of prevention is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This means avoiding unhealthy habits, sleeping more, and eating healthier foods. You should also drink plenty of fluids. A well-hydrated body is more resistant to infection. By following healthy habits, you can strengthen your immune system and reduce the likelihood of suffering from sinusitis.
There are several treatments available for sinusitis. One of the most common treatments is endoscopic sinus surgery. This procedure requires a needle to extract a small sample of sinus fluid, which is then cultured to identify the bacteria causing the condition. Although invasive, this procedure can be painful. The best way to prevent sinusitis is to avoid getting colds.
