Sinuses are cavities located in the upper part of the respiratory tract at the back of your nose, in your forehead, inside the cheekbones and throat that produce mucous necessary for the nasal passageways to work effectively. They are filled with air when healthy. Sinusitis is the inflammation of these sinuses. Sinusitis is a very common condition, with more than 10 million cases reported per year in India. Women are more susceptible to this condition.
Symptoms of sinusitis include:
- Pain in the face
- Plugged nose
- Thick nasal mucous
- Fever
- Headaches
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Poor sense of smell
- Possible infection of eye socket
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Problems in ear (due to clogged nasal passageways)
When to see a doctor?
See a doctor if you or your loved ones experience any of the above mentioned symptoms. Always trust premier medical institutions like Paras Hospitals Group, which have specialized departments for the treatment and care of such conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
The cause of sinusitis is fluid becoming trapped in the sinuses, which could happen due to a variety of factors like:
- Viruses, which account for 90% of the cases
- Bacteria, which effects one in ten adults with this condition
- Pollution, which triggers the build-up of mucous in the sinuses
- Fungi, which is rare, but not unheard of
Risk factors include:
- Recent respiratory tract infections like common cold
- Nasal polyps (small abnormal growths in tissue) which can lead to inflammation
- Allergy from dust, pollen and pollutants
- Structured problems like a deviated septum
Although most cases of sinusitis are resolved without the need of treatment, some need proper treatment. Treatment includes:
- Cleaning the nasal passages with salt water, saline solution or other medicated solutions
- Warm compress (warm wet towel) to the affected areas relieves pain and discomfort
- Painkillers will relieve the pain
- Steam inhalation can clear congestion, preferably with menthol oil
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Rest
- Structural issues such as a deviated septum may need surgery to be corrected
- Surgery may also be needed in case of polyps