Sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, is an infection that affects the sinuses in the body. Sinuses are the hollow spaces or cavities near the bones in the skull around the nose. Sinusitis is the swelling of these sinuses because of some allergic or immune reaction that causes the sinuses to be blocked. This blockage causes air to be trapped inside the sinuses along with other secretions like pus, putting pressure on the sinus walls. This pressure produces pain and a lot of discomfort, often referred to as a sinus attack. Sinus infection is a very common allergy that affects million of people throughout the world every year. Millions of dollars are spent for sinus medications and sinus research. Sinus infections may occur because of some viral or fungal infections. There are different kinds of sinuses: frontal sinuses (over the eyes in the brow area), maxillary sinuses (inside each cheekbone), ethmoid sinuses (just behind the bridge of the nose and between the eyes), and sphenoid sinuses (behind the ethmoids in the upper region of the nose and behind the eyes). Any part of these four sinuses can be infected, causing pain in that particular area. The most common symptoms of sinus infections are pain in the head, ear or neck; headaches early in the morning; pain in the upper jaw/ cheeks/ teeth; swelling of the eyelids; pain between the eyes; stuffy nose; loss of smell; and tenderness near the nose. Sometimes, there could be fever, tiredness, weakness, severe cough, and runny nose. Very rarely, acute sinusitis can lead to infection in the brain or some other complications. There are three kinds of sinus attacks: acute (up to three weeks), chronic (three to eight weeks or more), and recurring (frequent attacks within a year). Most sinus attacks start because of a viral cold. Fungal infections can also cause sinusitis, especially in people who have weak immune systems and are prone to allergies. Infections like hay fever or allergic rhinitis can also lead to acute sinusitis. People with weak immune systems, like those with HIV infection, and those who have mucus secretion abnormalities are also more prone to sinusitis. The most common treatment for sinusitis is a decongestant to reduce the congestion in the nose, antibiotics for the infection, and pain relievers for any pain. There are over-the-counter decongestants and sprays available that can provide some relief. However, these should be used only for a few days. It is advisable to consult a specialist if the infection exists for long time. Acute sinusitis can be treated with antibiotics and decongestants but chronic sinusitis takes a longer time and is usually difficult to treat because it could be linked to some other infection like asthma. In such cases, doctors may also prescribe steroids for relief. Some people may also require surgery. There are also easy home remedies for providing relief from sinusitis. Inhaling steam, saline nasal spray, gentle heat application over the inflamed area, lying down in a darkened room, decoction of mustard seeds and water instilled in the nostrils, drinking juice of ripe grapes, jalapeno pepper, inhalation of peppermint steam, applying a paste of cinnamon and water or dry ginger and water, etc. are some of the most commonly used home remedies for sinus infections. |
