Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)
Overview
Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of the sinus membranes due to an infection caused by a virus, bacteria, or fungus. The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the skull.
Types of Sinuses
- Frontal sinuses
- Maxillary sinuses
- Ethmoid sinuses
- Sphenoid sinuses
If the opening from a sinus cavity becomes blocked, the flow of the mucus gets blocked and results in pressure buildup causing pain and inflammation.
Sinusitis can be caused due to following reasons:
- Small hair in the sinuses
- Cold and allergies
- A deviated nasal septum
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system from HIV or chemotherapy
- Generally doctors suggest antibiotics or decongestants for several weeks. Pain killers can also be given to provide relief.
- Antihistamines or nasal sprays are prescribed to treat the allergies that cause chronic (recurrent) sinus infections.
- If medicines do not result in positive outcomes, sinus surgery is done to treat chronic and severe sinusitis infection. During the surgery, surgeons create an extra or enlarged passageway in the wall of the sinus cavity. It allows the sinuses to get more air easily and free from infection.
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) – This sinus operation is done to treat chronic symptoms of sinusitis infection.
Other Conditions & Treatments
- Adenoids
- Epistaxis
- Nasal Congestion (Airway Obstruction)
- Ruptured Eardrum Surgery
- Tinnitus
- Tonsillitis