Are you suffering from chronic sinus infections? If yes, then you should read this article. This post will give you some valuable information about sinuses and their treatment.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities located inside your skull. They serve as drainage channels for mucous secretions produced by your nose and throat. When these secretions become infected or inflamed, they cause pain and discomfort.
Chronic sinusitis is defined as having symptoms lasting longer than 12 weeks. There are three types of sinusitis: acute, subacute, and chronic sinusitis.
1.Acute Sinusitis
If it lasts less than two weeks, it’s called an “acute sinusitis.” Viral or bacterial infections can cause it.
2.Subacute Sinusitis
It is usually a result of an upper respiratory tract infection that lingers for more than two weeks. Acute sinusitis can lead to subacute sinusitis. Subacute sinusitis may last anywhere from 4 weeks to 3 months.
Chronic Sinusitis
This type of sinusitis occurs when there is no identifiable cause. It can be associated with allergies, nasal polyps, deviated septum, or other problems.
Symptoms Of Chronic Sinusitis Include:
- Headaches
- Pain around eyes
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Swelling in face
The good news is that there is no need to worry if you have chronic infections most of the time. It can get managed easily with some natural home remedies.
What Causes Chronic Sinusitis Infection?
Although many people mistakenly think that a cold will lead to a sinusitis infection this is not always the case. A virus does not necessarily mean an infection; sometimes, it’s just a symptom. Some common symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion (clogged nose)
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Coughing up mucus
- Rhinorrhea (runny nose)
- Bleeding gums
- Ear ache
- Loss of appetite
- Aches and pains in the face, neck or upper back
- Sinus headaches
When someone has one of these symptoms but does not have a fever or cough, they may be suffering from acute rhinosinusitis. It’s a viral infection of the sinuses, which usually clears up on its own within four to seven days. Acute rhinosinusitis is more likely to occur when exposed to a respiratory virus like influenza, although it can happen for many reasons.
How Soon Can the Infections Start?
The exact time between exposure to an infectious agent and developing an infection varies significantly from person to person. However, most people develop symptoms within 10 to 14 days. In some cases, there’s no known cause. These people may have allergies, and their sinuses will clear up independently.
Can I Prevent Sinus?
Yes! There are things you can do to avoid getting them in the first place. For example, try to keep your hands clean and wash your hands often. You can also wear a mask whenever you visit public sites where you might catch a cold or get sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth, and throat. And if you feel tired or run down after being out in the heat, stay home instead of visiting friends or relatives.
To Get Rid Of Your Sinus Problems In An Easy Way, Try The Following Tips:
1. Drink Plenty Of Water
Water keeps the body hydrated and healthy. It helps flush out toxins and keep the nasal passages clean. Try drinking at least eight glasses of water every day. You may want to take more than what’s recommended as well.
2. Eat Foods Rich In Vitamin C
Vitamin C improves resistance against bacterial infections. So, make sure you eat citrus fruits like lemons and oranges daily. Also, consume lots of dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, collard greens, broccoli, and cabbage. They contain high amounts of vitamin C.
3. Use Saltwater Gargles
Gargling with warm salt water helps get rid of bad breath and reduces getting an infection.
4. Take Probiotics
Probiotics help restore balance in the digestive tract. Good bacteria found in yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, and pickled vegetables work wonders in improving digestion.
5. Get regular exercise
Exercise increases levels of endorphins, which makes you feel happier. It also stimulates the lymphatic system, leading to faster healing.
6. Wash Your Hands Frequently
Washing your hands regularly can prevent the spread of germs that often cause infections.
7. Stay Away From Cigarette Smoke
Smoking irritates the lungs and worsens breathing problems. Therefore, quit smoking right now if you are a smoker.
8. Reduce Stress
Stress affects our immune systems and leads to increased production of cortisol, a hormone that interferes with normal metabolism. Cortisol tends to dry up the mucus membranes, making them susceptible to bacterial growth.
9. Use Humidifiers
Humidifiers reduce the drying effects of air conditioning and heating units. They also create a humid environment inside your house. It slows down the formation of mould, fungus, and other harmful microorganisms that thrive in dry climates.
10. Consider Taking Allergy Medication
Allergies affect about 25 percent of people worldwide. If you suffer from allergies, consider using antihistamines or decongestants for relief.
What Should I Do When A Sinusitis Infection Doesn’t Go Away?
If you’re experiencing sinus problems for longer than two weeks, see your doctor. They may suggest various treatments depending on what’s going on with your particular case. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antihistamines, decongestants, cortisone injections, or nasal sprays. If none of those work, they may refer you to a specialist specializing in treating sinus disorders.
These specialists use drugs, lasers, radiofrequency ablation, endoscopic procedures, and surgical techniques to remove tissue or bone inside the nose to open the sinus cavity and allow air to drain freely. Other treatment methods involve opening the sinus Ostia or blocking off the openings with gauze or cotton balls.
Can Sinuses Lead To Other Health Problems?
Yes. You could easily suffer from another medical issue when you have a sinus problem, including asthma, pneumonia, ear infections, migraine headaches, vertigo (dizziness), and poor sleep. It could also lead to other chronic problems such as bronchitis, depression, and anxiety.
In conclusion, getting rid of sinus infection should be cautious as some treatments may cause adverse side effects. If you are experiencing excessive bleeding, consult your physician immediately to prescribe medication that would help reduce the risk of bleeding. Also, make sure that you do not take antibiotics unless prescribed by your doctor, as doing so might trigger allergies and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
