What is Sinusitis?

Types of Sinusitis

The different types of sinusitis are —

1. Acute sinusitis:

This is a viral infection which is caused by common cold, and it usually gets better within 10 days. However, some symptoms can take up to 3 to 4 weeks to subside.

2. Chronic sinusitis:

Although the symptoms of chronic sinusitis are same as acute sinusitis, the former lasts longer. Therefore, if you experience the symptoms of acute sinusitis for over 3 months, it is chronic sinusitis. The condition is caused due to recurrent respiratory infections, allergies, nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum, etc.

3. Sub-acute sinusitis:

Sub-acute sinusitis lasts for over a month but it gets better within 3 months. The symptoms of this type are milder when compared to acute sinusitis.

4. Recurrent sinusitis:

Recurrent sinusitis is a condition that keeps coming back every few months. If you get a sinus infection more than 4 times a year, it may be recurrent sinusitis. Some primary causes of the condition are nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum, smoking tobacco, etc.

5. Allergic sinusitis:

This type happens when you breathe in environmental irritants, such as dust, smoke, and pollen. Although the symptoms of this condition are similar to other types of sinusitis, allergic sinusitis can cause additional symptoms such as itchy eyes, nose, and throat. The condition is seasonal and depends on the amount of allergens in the air.

6. Pansinusitis:

This is a rare type in which all the paranasal sinuses are inflamed. It can be either acute or chronic depending on how long symptoms last. Effective treatment is available, but it may take 10 days to 2 weeks to feel better.

Other types of sinusitis are bacterial, viral, and fungal sinusitis. While both bacterial and viral sinusitis cause similar symptoms, they are treated differently. Fungal sinusitis is caused by fungus and is more severe than the other types. It largely affects people with a weakened immune system.

Sinusitis Causes

Sinusitis is caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and allergens. Some common triggers of the condition are:

• Common cold and allergies that lead to excessive mucous formation

• The flu

• Nasal and seasonal allergies

• A deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps, or nasal bone spur that blocks the opening of the sinuses

• Cilia or small hair in the sinuses that prevent mucous from moving out

• Chronic respiratory infection

Symptoms

The symptoms of sinusitis are:

• Runny nose with thick yellowish-green mucous

• Postnatal drainage

• Stuffy nose

• Pus in the nasal cavity

• Headache

• Fever

• Facial pressure, especially around the eyes, nose, and forehead

• Pain in the ears

• Tooth pain

• Cough

• Bad breath

• Tiredness

Diagnosis

The following tests can help diagnose a sinus infection —

1. Nasal swabs:

This test uses a soft-tipped stick that collects fluid samples from the nose. The sample is then tested for viruses and other microorganisms to diagnose a sinus infection.

2. Nasal endoscopy:

In this test, the healthcare provider inserts a small, flexible tube into the nose to check the sinuses for infection.

3. CT scan:

In some cases, doctors advise a CT scan to check the sinuses.

4. Allergy test:

This test is done to diagnose the triggers of chronic sinusitis. Therefore, if you are exhibiting symptoms of the condition, your doctor will test you for allergies that usually trigger the condition.

5. Biopsy:

In this test, a small tissue sample is taken from the nose and tested for sinus infection. However, this test is rarely done.

Treatment

Most cases of sinusitis get cured on their own, i.e., without any medical treatment. However, in case of a severe infection, your doctor may prescribe the following medications:

• Decongestants that can be in the form of tablets, liquids, and nasal sprays

• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications for cold and allergy

• Pain relievers

• Medicines for nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis

• Antibiotics, if sinusitis is caused by bacteria

A. Surgery:

If sinusitis is chronic in nature and does not clear up with treatment, your doctor may advise an endoscopic sinus surgery. This surgery is done to remove the problem-causing tissue from the nose.

Other types of surgeries done to treat the condition are endoscopic sinus surgery, septoplasty, and balloon sinuplasty.

B. Home Remedies:

that may help ease the symptoms include:

• Keep yourself hydrated and drink lots of fluids, such as warm water, soups, and herbal teas.

• Inhale steam several times a day to relieve congestion

• Use a humidifier in your room to add moisture to the air

• Apply a warm compress on your forehead and nose to ease the sinus pain and pressure

• Rest well

• Eat spicy food to help clear nasal passages

Prevention Tips

To manage and prevent sinusitis, consider these precautions:

• Maintain and follow a good personal hygiene

• Stay hydrated to prevent blockages

• Avoid exposure to irritants that can aggravate sinus symptoms

• Manage allergies as it can trigger sinusitis

• Use a humidifier in your room to prevent dry nasal passages

• Seek prompt treatment