How to Treat Sinusitis?
- January 24, 2024
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What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis, an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, affects structures within your face normally filled with air. Bacterial or viral infections, as well as allergies, can irritate the sinuses, causing blockages and fluid accumulation. This leads to pressure, facial pain, nasal congestion, and other associated symptoms. Often referred to as rhinosinusitis, this condition significantly impacts overall well-being by disrupting the normal functioning of the air-filled cavities around the nose, eyes, and cheeks, paving the way for infections and inflammation.
Why Does Sinusitis Occur?
Several factors contribute to the development of sinusitis. Common causes include viral infections (such as the common cold), bacterial infections, fungal infections, allergies, nasal polyps, and a deviated septum. Environmental irritants like smoke and pollutants can also trigger or exacerbate sinusitis symptoms. The condition can be acute, lasting a few weeks, or chronic, persisting for more than three months.
How to Identify Sinusitis?
Symptoms of sinusitis can vary, but common signs include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, a reduced sense of smell, headache, fatigue, and a cough that worsens at night. The discharge from the nose may be discolored, and individuals with sinusitis often experience a feeling of fullness or pressure in the face. To diagnose sinusitis, healthcare providers typically perform a physical examination and may request imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to get a detailed view of the sinuses.