- Sinusitis Treatments
- What is the Cause of Sinusitis?
Before and After
What is the Cause of Sinusitis?
Specific Sinusitis Issues
Sinusitis may be caused by anything that causes swelling in the sinuses or keeps the cilia from moving. This can include changes in temperature or air pressure, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, smoking, and swimming or diving. In addition, certain growths known as polyps can cause a blockage to the sinus passages.
Sinusitis caused by a bacterial or viral infection results in a sinus infection. Sinus infections may occur after a cold because the cold virus attacks the sinus lining, causing them to swell and narrow. In response to the virus, the body produces more mucus, but this gets blocked in the swollen sinuses, creating a good place for bacteria to grow and ultimately lead to a sinus infection.
What are the symptoms of acute sinusitis?
Acute sinusitis is often characterized by a cold that begins to gets better but then gets worse. A blocked sinus drainage can be a sign of acute sinusitis and is often characterized by pain or pressure in certain areas of the face including the forehead, cheeks or between the eyes. Other symptoms of acute sinusitis may include pain in the forehead that begins when leaning forward, stuffy nose, fever, and pain in the upper teeth.
How do you treat acute sinusitis?
An antibiotic may be taken for ten to fourteen days. Though many patients begin to feel better within a few days after beginning the antibiotic, it's important that the antibiotic be taken until it's completed. A decongestant may also be recommended to help alleviate sinus pain or pressure.
