Don’t Get Stuffed Up: Sinusitis Unplugged

Thick, green, slimy, and yes, overall nasty phlegm is not something that I enjoy having ooze from my nose. But, this is just one of the many symptoms and irritations of sinusitis. Generally I feel like I am walking around in a fog when a sinus infection hits and sometimes it is hard to function at all. I become infuriated by the side effects of this viral infection as it fogs my brain and prevents me from getting work done. Before, during these times, I tried to ignore all the miserable symptoms of sinusitis. It turns out that there is treatment and relief, and that no one needs to wallow in phlegm and irritation; in fact, ignoring a sinus infection, could allow it to become even worse.

Caused most often by an extra persistent common cold, a sinus infection can quickly develop into a full blown sinus headache, temporarily immobilizing the victim or laying them out for weeks. So what is a sinus infection and how do you beat it?

A sinus infection or sinusitis can be characterized by toothache, headache and/or pain behind, between, or above the eyes. Nearly 37 million Americans suffer from sinusitis yearly and many of them likely do not even realize where the pain comes from.

What is a Sinus?

A sinus is a hollow, air-filled cavity in the head that connects the nostril and nasal passageways. There are four pairs of sinuses, which are essential to cushioning the brain, insulating the skull, and allowing the voice to resonate. They are located behind the cheekbones, eyebrows, and jaw. Your sinuses create an essential fluid that clears bacteria and other particles out of the sinuses and nasal passages. The inside of each sinus is covered in tiny hairs called cilia that sweep the mucus and other particles that collect there, out of the body. This fluid is normally very good, because it keeps your sinuses clean.

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis occurs when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed, they swell and the lubricating fluid becomes trapped inside. The trapped fluid generates the pressure that results in the intense pain that characterizes sinus problems. If the swelling remains for too long, a worse infection can develop. It may also spread to the ears, resulting in an ear infection. This blocked state can last for a couple of weeks and can become chronic or recurrent. During this time, sinus pain can range from being mildly irritating to debilitating, so it is important to treat sinusitis early.

Causes

What causes this inflammation of the sinuses? There are many causes. Allergens (such as pollen), viruses, bacterial infection, and changes in temperature or altitude, are all possible irritants. Swimming, smoking, or even using nasal spray too much can also be the culprits. In some people, polyps (small growths) can block sinus passages and this often requires surgery.

Symptoms

How do you know if you have sinusitis? Pain or pressure between the eyes, in the cheeks, or forehead is a very good indication of a sinus blockage. If you have a cold that seems to get better, but then gets worse or pain begins in your forehead when you lean over, your front teeth ache, and/or you have a stuffy nose, then you are probably suffering from sinusitis.

Treatment

What is the best thing to do when suffering from acute sinusitis? If it is a bacterial infection, your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotics. If this is the case, it is very important to complete the prescription. Just because symptoms are gone and you feel better, does not mean that the infection is gone. If the bacteria are not all killed, then the sinus infection could come back even worse.

If you are plagued with allergies, then an antihistamine can help to suppress the sinus inflammation and in any case, a decongestant will help to break down and drain the mucus. A nasal wash is a very good option, because it helps to flush out the irritants and soothe the inflamed sinus lining. Be careful that it is not an addictive nasal spray, because the swelling could get worse after you stop using it.

But as with any illness, the best thing to do is to get lots of rest and stay hydrated. If the pain is too great, you may consider using an acetaminophen (like Tylenol).

It is so good to know that one does not have to endure the pain and irritation that characterize a sinus infection. The sooner you start treatment, the faster relief comes. And with sinusitis, the sooner relief comes, the better.

Anna Little is a Client Account Specialist. For treatment and prevention of Sinusitis check out Xlear.

Sources:

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Familydoctor.org