By Matthias Samuel
Sinusitis, commonly known as sinus, is the most common infection. A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, is a painful condition that causes stuffy, painful pressure in the nasal cavity. Sinusitis can be caused due to other nasal disorders, such as a deviated nasal septum, common cold, allergic rhinitis or nasal polyps. It can also be caused due to exposure to chemicals or irritant substances which cause irritation in the sinuses.
Causes
- Nasal polyps. The growth of theses tissues can block the nasal passages or sinuses.
- Deviated nasal septum. It is the wall between the nostrils which may restrict or block sinus passages, making the symptoms of sinusitis worse.
- Other medical conditions. The complications of conditions such as cystic fibrosis, HIV and other immune system-related diseases can lead to nasal blockage.
- Respiratory tract infections. Most commonly colds can inflame and thicken your sinus membranes and block mucus drainage. These infections can be viral, bacterial or fungal.
- Allergies such as hay fever.
Symptoms
- Facial pain or pressure
- “Stuffed-up” nose
- Runny nose
- Loss of smell
- Cough or congestion
- Fever
- Bad breath
- Fatigue
- Dental pain
Treatment
Sometimes, sinus infections often go away on their own without any medical treatment. However, there are some things a person can do at home to relieve the infection.
Following are some treatments which can be used to cure sinus:
- Applying a warm compress to the sinuses, it eases up the pain and pressure by loosening up the fluid in the sinuses.
- Using a nasal wash or sinus rinse, such as a saline spray or neti pot, which are available from drug stores and online.
- Taking antihistamine tablets to reduce inflammation in the sinuses, there is a variety of antihistamines available in supermarkets and online.
- Using a nasal decongestant spray to help clear the sinuses and relieve pressure. These sprays are also available to buy from drug stores or online.
Matthias Samuel is a student of history in Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad, and occasionally writes blogs and articles.
