Overview of Sinusitis
When there is pain and pressure in your face and head, more times than not this is a sinus infection. There are both types of sinus infections that last for a while, and those that are considered acute. Chronic sinusitis is classified as pain, infection and inflammation that does not go away after 12 weeks or longer.
The Causes of Sinusitis
There are various things that can cause sinusitis, including:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Fungi
The virus that causes the common cold is the same one responsible for sinus infections. When the virus takes a hole, the sinus cavities start to swell, just as if you have a cold. This swelling is going to block the normal route of drainage, which results in fluid building up and then can lead to a bacterial or fungal infection. The bacterial and fungal infection are going to cause even more swelling and pain in the area. With these symptoms in place, a person will find that the pain and swelling gets worse over time. Other causes of sinusitis are due to nasal allergies that result in swelling due to the allergens in the air.
The Symptoms of Sinusitis
There are several symptoms that a person can demonstrate, they may have a few or all of these symptoms. Most common symptoms have drainage that is yellow or green coming from the nose or rolling down the throat. Other symptoms include:
- Headache
- Pain in the nose
- A cough that is accompanied by cough
- Fever
- Pain in the jaw or teeth
- You cannot taste or smell as well
Diagnosing Sinusitis
A doctor can look as your symptoms and swelling to tell whether you have sinusitis or not. In most cases, the professional will also take into consideration your medical history. Rarely, does a person have to get any tests performed to see if this is the issue.
Treatment for Sinusitis
When sinusitis is viral, it usually goes away on its own within 14 days. Antibiotics are not going to help with viral infection, but you can also:
- Drink fluids
- Utilize a warm towel or gel pack on your face for 5 to 10 minutes, several times throughout the day
- Breathe in warm and moist air such as in a sauna or while in the shower
- Saline nose drops can help clear the passes
- Use saline nasal washes to help clean out the mucus or bacteria found in the nose
- Utilize over the counter pain medications for the pain and swelling