Sinusitis Symptoms and Treatment

Sinusitis is the medical term for inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the sinuses. It's usually caused by infection. Sinusitis can be acute or chronic. Acute sinusitis (going on less than four weeks), is usually precipitated by an earlier upper respiratory tract infection, generally of viral origin. Virally damaged surface tissues are then colonized by bacteria, most commonly haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Staphylococcus aureus. Acute sinusitis often starts as a cold, which then turns into a bacterial infection. Allergies, pollutants, nasal problems and certain diseases can also cause sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis are the same as acute sinusitis, but tend to be milder and last longer than 8 weeks.

Sinusitis symptoms are frequent headache, difficulty in breathing and one has pain above the eyes. All these symptoms must not be ignored as these are the main causes of this infection. The doctors say that it is best to cure the disease when it is at the primary stage. One can easily cure it then, but if someone ignores it then it will cause problems for sure. So when someone has a problem with a change of climate and is having frequent headaches, then he or she must surely get a checkup done from the doctor.

Treatments include antibiotics, decongestants and pain relievers. Use an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol) for pain. Using heat pads on the inflamed area, saline nasal sprays and vaporizers can also help. Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve pain and inflammation. A cool-mist humidifier may soothe your sinuses. Warm compresses usually help with facial pain. Nasal corticosteroid sprays may be used to decrease swelling, especially if you have swollen structures (such as nasal polyps) or allergies. Antibiotics are used to cure the particular infection causing sinus inflammation. Surgery to clean and drain the sinuses may also be necessary, especially in patients with recurrent episodes of inflammation despite medical treatment.

There are natural treatment you can take to overcome the problem of sinusitis. First, as much as possible avoid inhaling traffic fumes, cigarette smokes and chemicals at home or at work. Second, exercise regularly. Even walking for thirty minutes three to four times a week can be very effective. Third, avoid foods such as eggs, wheat, fatty foods, pastries, sugar, chocolate and any food that contains food additives. Fourth, eat more fruits and vegetable, fish, hot chicken and salads. Fifth, drink two to three liters of water a day. Keep in mind that water helps in keeping the body clean. Lastly, when suffering from colds, inhalation is a tested way of relieving blocked sinuses.