Sinusitis: What is it and How Can You Treat It?

Sinusitis is a very common problem which affects millions of people around the world. It is an inflammation of the sinuses, the air filled spaces in the bones around the nose, that can cause a variety of symptoms such as nasal congestion, headaches, and facial pressure. While it is often caused by a viral infection, sinusitis can also be caused by a bacterial infection or an allergy.

What are the Symptoms of Sinusitis?

The most common symptom of sinusitis is a thick, coloured nasal discharge. Usually this is yellow or green in colour, and it may contain blood and other debris. Other symptoms can include:

• Nasal congestion or a blocked nose
• Pain in the face, especially around the eyes and nose
• Headache
• A sore throat
• Cough
• Fever
• Bad breath

How is Sinusitis Diagnosed and Treated?

Sinusitis is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and a discussion of symptoms. Your doctor may also obtain a sample of mucus from the nose and throat by using a sterile swab. A laboratory test of this sample can help identify if a bacterial infection is causing the sinusitis.

Treatment for sinusitis depends on the cause. Most cases of sinusitis, especially those caused by a viral infection, will resolve on their own within a few weeks. In some cases, however, treatment may be required. This may include antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection, or nasal sprays or nasal decongestants to reduce nasal congestion. Other treatments such as nasal saline irrigation and steam inhalation can also be helpful. If the cause of the sinusitis is an allergy, then treating the allergy can also help resolve the sinusitis.

If you have symptoms of sinusitis it is important to see your doctor, as sinusitis can be very uncomfortable and can worsen if left untreated. With the right diagnosis and treatment, however, sinusitis can be managed so that it does not become a long term problem.