Symptoms of and Treatments for Sinusitis

Sinusitis occurs when the cavities around your nasal passages become inflamed. The inflammation causes difficulties with nasal drainage which can cause mucus buildup. Sinusitis can be painful and very uncomfortable. The area around your face and eyes can become swollen and tender to touch. Sinusitis can also cause terrible headaches and pressure behind the eyes. If the sinusitis lasts longer than eight weeks or continues to return frequently it might be chronic sinusitis.

Chronic sinusitis can be caused by nasal polyps or a deviated septum. Infections also cause sinusitis. If you notice discolored drainage, often grey or green in color you may be suffering from an infection. This drainage can be through the nasal passages or as a post nasal drip down the back of the throat. Nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing are common complaints with sinusitis. Allergies and respiratory disease can also be culprits. If sever enough you can experience jaw pain, ear pain, bad breath, cough and reduced sense of smell and taste. Significant drainage down the back of the throat can create nausea. Unlike acute sinusitis chronic sinusitis does not generally cause a fever. The symptoms are very similar however, chronic sinusitis lasts much longer.

Some people have risk factors that make them more susceptible for sinusitis. If you have a nasal passage abnormality such as polyps or deviated septum you are more likely to develop sinusitis. Other risk factors include aspirin sensitivity, cystic fibrosis, gastro esophageal reflux, hay fever, asthma and regular exposure to pollutants. Smoking and second hand smoke can contribute significantly to sinusitis.

There are several treatment options depending on the severity of the sinusitis and how invasive of a procedure the patient is willing to undergo. If the sinusitis is caused by a deviated septum or polyps surgery may be required to correct the situation. If the sinusitis is allergy related a nasal spray or allergy medication may help alleviate symptoms. You might also consider allergy injections to build up your immune system to fight the allergies. It is best to resolve the root problem, not just treat the symptoms. Over the counter pain relievers used in conjunction with decongestants can help with post nasal drip and excess mucus buildup. It is not very common but some sinusitis can be caused by a bacterial infection. Bacterial infections are easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by your physician. You certainly want to see your physician if you suspect an infection. If untreated infections can lead to aneurysms and blood clots which puts you at greater risk for a stroke.