What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses. Sinuses are air filled cavities found
- Within the bony structure of the cheeks
- Behind the forehead and eyebrows
- On either side of the nose
- Behind the nose directly in front of the brain
Normal sinuses are lined with a thin layer of mucus that traps germs,dust and other particles in the air. Tiny hair-like projections (cilia) in the sinuses sweep the mucus and whatever is trapped in it to the back of the throat. From there, it slides down to the stomach.
Sinusitis can be caused by infection, allergies, air pollution, or structural problems in the nose.
There are two major forms of sinusitis:
- Acute: lasts anywhere from ten days up to eight weeks.
- Chronic: which lasts even longer, it may seem like it’s improving, and then starts again just as bad as it was at first. Chronic sinusitis may drag on for months at a time.
Both acute and chronic sinus infections can be viral or bacterial. Some long-standing infections are fungal.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
Many of the symptoms of sinusitis are the same as a bad cold. They include:
- Headaches which may worsen with bending over or lying down.
- Postnasal drip
- Discolored nasal discharge (greenish in color)
- Coughing from the post nasal drip
- Stuffy nose or congestion
- Tenderness in the face usually under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose
- Aching teeth
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
Natural Ways to Relieve Sinusitis
There is no sure way to prevent sinusitis, but the following tips may help
Know when to see the doctor.
If the sinus pain does not improve and lasts for a week or more.
Symptoms such as a fever that won’t go away, a change in your eyesight, severe headaches and neck stiffness need immediate medical attention.