The conditions ofthe nasal passagesare usually characterized by being painful and uncomfortable, because they generate a variety of symptoms that can seriously affect personal productivity, one of these conditions beingsinusitis.
That is why the following article will explain briefly and in detail about sinusitis, where the concept of this condition and its different types is mentioned, as well as the symptoms it can generate and its possible treatments.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a condition in the face that generates inflammation and obstruction inthe cavities located around the nose, becoming caused by allergies, colds, previous conditions or immune disorders.
Note: Similarly, a study conducted jointly by various medical societies in Spain, define sinusitis as adisease that generates inflammation in the sinuses as acomplication of a viral respiratory condition. (1)
Types of sinusitis
Sinusitis is a disease thathas 3 different types of degree, which can differ in their symptoms or duration and healing time in the person. These becoming the following:
1. Acute sinusitis
A study published on acute sinusitis, explains that this is acondition that inflames the mucosa of the sinuses, generating cough and a lot of nasal congestion, and can become persistentfor four weeks. (2)
To highlight: The application ofnasal spraysis usually one of the treatments that can help relieve acute sinusitis, in order to rinse the ducts of the respiratory cavity and reduce inflammation of it.
2. Chronic sinusitis
A hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina, published a study explaining that chronic sinusitis differs from acute sinusitis by being more consistent, lasting up to 12 weeks, and with more unfavorable symptoms such as facial pain and loss of smell and taste. (3)
3. Subacute sinusitis
An academic article published by Medigraphic on sinusitis mentions that this subacute condition shares the same symptoms as a normal acute one, but inflammation is usually present for a period of 4 to 12 weeks . (4)
What causes sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a condition that can be caused by various causes, so it is necessary to know each one of them in order to determine its origin. Therefore, the following should be taken into account:
1. Allergies and rhinitis
One of the main causes of sinusitis are allergies and rhinitis, because these make it difficult for mucus to drain properly when the sinuses become inflamed, thus causing a bacterial infection and a blocked nose.
2. Respiratory tract infections
Like allergies, respiratory tract infections are one of the most common causes of sinusitis, as the sinus membranes become inflamed and thickened, blocking the drainage of mucus from the nose.
3. Anatomical problems
Another cause of sinusitis are anatomical problems related to the nose, such as septal deviations or nasal septum , in which the paranasal sinus ducts are restricted and obstructed, generating consistent inflammation.
4. Immune disorders
Immune disorders or weak immune systems are also causes of sinusitis in people, since they can be affected by fungal or bacterial infections that generate inflammation in the paranasal sinuses.
5. Nasal polyps
Finally, nasal polyps are tissues that can block the paranasal sinus ducts when they grow and are large, which prevents mucus drainage properly, leading to inflammation and other persistent symptoms.
How do you know if you have sinusitis?
It is important to know exactly the Diagnosis of sinusitis, since there may be confusion related to other similar infections. Therefore, it should be considered to have this condition if the following symptoms are consistently present:
1. Inflammation, congestion and runny nose
Inflammation, congestion, and discharge from the nose and paranasal sinuses are the most common symptoms of sinusitis, which can make normal nasal breathing difficult, as well as constantly suffering from thick and discolored secretions.
2. Headache and sore throat
Another of the most common sinusitis symptoms are headaches and throat pain. Theseare usually very constant, so it is recommended to take analgesics in cases of being very intense to relieve pain.
3. Cough, fever and fatigue
Other symptoms that are frequently present during sinusitis are cough, fever and fatigue. This is because the immune system is fighting the infection, this being the body’s reaction to try to eradicate it.
4. Bad breath and decreased smell and taste
Finally, it is possible to suffer annoying symptoms such as decreased smell and taste, as well as constant bad breath. Thisis because the nasal cavity becomes inflamed, altering both senses due to pain or secretions.
How is sinusitis cured?
Once you know the possible causes and symptoms that sinusitis can cause, it is necessary to know its possible cures and treatments, in order to overcome this condition quickly. That is why the following indications are recommended:
1. Drainage of the paranasal sinuses
One of the best recommendations for sinusitis is a drainage of the paranasal sinuses, since these cause inflammation due to being obstructed. To do this, you can inhale herbal steam or humidify the air to relieve pain.
2. Atomizers or nasal drops
Sprays and nasal drops are good recommendations to overcome sinusitis, since they work to eliminate dirt and the accumulation of secretions in the nose, thus reducing the symptoms that may occur.
3. Drugs prescribed by a specialist
It is also possible to use drugs that are prescribed by a specialist, so that they can alleviate or fight the infection quickly. For this, a doctor should be seen to evaluate and thus prescribe medications such as nasal saline solution, nasal sprays with corticosteroids and antihistamines.
4. Surgery
Finally, although less common, surgery can be performed on the patient, which consists of intervening in the paranasal sinuses in order to alleviate the blocked ducts, so that the signs caused by this nasal condition can be reduced.
Key Findings
- Sinusitis is inflammation of the nasal cavity causing an obstruction of the paranasal sinuses.
- The 3 different types of sinusitis (acute, chronic or subacute) present similar clinical pictures, but they differ in their duration.
- This infection can be caused by allergies, respiratory infections , anatomical problems, weak immune systems, or growth of nasal polyps.
- Symptoms can include allergies, nasal congestion, respiratory infections, cough, fever, fatigue, headache, and sore throat.
- It is relieved with certain recommendations such as: drainage of the paranasal sinuses,Use of drops, sprays, prescription drugs, or surgery.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.