Sinusitis

Possible Causes of Sinusitis
More than half of all cases of sinusitis are caused by bacteria. The sinuses affected by this infection include those above the eyes, inside each cheekbone, behind the bridge of the nose, and in the upper nose. Acute sinusitis is frequently caused by colds or bacterial and viral infections of the nose, throat and upper respiratory tract. Chronic sinusitis problems may be caused by small growths in the nose, injury of the nasal bones, smoking and irritant fumes and smells. Allergenic sinusitis may be caused by hay fever and food allergies, especially allergies to milk and dairy products.

Possible Symptoms of Sinusitis
Symptoms of sinusitis include headache, ear ache, toothache, facial pain, cranial pressure, loss of the sense of smell, tenderness over the forehead and cheekbones, and occasionally a high fever. Sometimes sinusitis produces a swollen face followed by a stuffy nose and thick discharge of mucus. Swelling around the eyes is a serious sign. If left untreated, sinusitis can lead to asthma, bronchitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, pneumonia or other respiratory disorders.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Sinusitis
Sinusitis can be prevented by treating nasal congestion as quickly as possible, avoiding contact with people with colds and respiratory infections, avoiding smoke, steering clear of allergy triggers and using a humidifier in the home and office. If sinusitis becomes a problem, drink plenty of water, apply moist heat to the face for five to 10 minutes several times a day, use saltwater nasal washes to keep the nasal passages clear, use over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms and blow the nose carefully to avoid forcing mucus back into the sinuses.