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Sinusitis
Overview:
Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses, which are the open spaces in the bones of the skull and face. Often causing pain in the area and related headaches.
Signs and Symptoms:
The bones of the skull contain four sets of sinuses, but the ones most commonly affected are above the eyes and to either side of the nose. Symptoms experienced may include:
* Blocked nose
* Thick discharge
* Pain and tenderness in the affected part
* Redness and swelling of the area
* Headache (the term "pressure headache" may be used)
* Post-nasal drip (particularly in the presence of a chronic low-grade infection), with an unproductive cough
* Mucous may have a musty or foul smell and is commonly yellow-green in colour
* Toothache
* Fever or chill may be present
Causes and Organs Affected:
The sinuses or nasal passages are usually hollow and contain light mucous, which is produced by the body to trap dirt and foreign matter in the air we breathe. The contaminated mucous is pushed out through tiny openings that serve as drains. These openings, known as ostia, are very small and are mostly at the bottom of the cavities where mucous can drain out easily. However there are a few cavities with the openings at the top, which makes draining mucous more difficult.
Risk Factor:
You're at increased risk of getting chronic or recurrent sinusitis if you have: A nasal passage abnormality, Aspirin sensitivity, A medical condition, An immune system disorder, Hay fever or another allergic condition, Asthma and Regular exposure to pollutants.
Treatment:
Sleep in a well-ventilated room that is clean and free of potential allergens such as pet hair, dust mites and feathers. Special low-allergy bedding and cleaning products may need to be used.
Avoid foods you are allergic to. Keeping a food and symptom diary is one way to pinpoint which foods are aggravating or triggering your condition - observe patterns that occur over several weeks and remember that reactions may take up to 48 hours to occur
Lifestyle Management:
Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, particularly those rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids such as citrus, capsicum and pineapple. At the same time avoid mucous-producing foods such as dairy products.
Increase your intake of fluids - filtered water, vegetable and fruit juices, soups and herbal teas.