What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis refers to an inflammation of the mucus membrane lining the paranasal sinuses. It often follows a common cold, influenza, and other general infections. Infecting germs sometimes find their way into sinuses or chambers on either side of the nasal passage, leading to sinus trouble. The sinuses are basically moist air passages that are hollowed out in the facial bones, behind and around the nasal area. The sinuses are classified into four groups, with the frontal sinuses situated towards the eyebrows, while the cheekbones house the maxillary sinuses. The ethmoid sinuses are located just between the eyes, and behind them are the sphenoid sinuses.
So what exactly is the role of the sinuses, and are sinus problems the norm? Sinus problems and infections are quite common, but under normal circumstances in a healthy individual the sinuses help to reduce the density of the facial bones, as they fill with air, and they could also have a role to play in our immunity and in our vocal abilities, but the truth is that their purpose is not entirely understood. The term sinusitis could refer to any kind of sinus infection or problem, as it may imply a viral or bacterial infection of the sinuses and it could also be caused at times as a result of allergic reactions. Inflammation of the sinuses may also be a common feature of a common cold infection. This is because when you suffer from the common cold or similar conditions that cause nasal congestion, the sinuses cannot drain properly and bacteria remain trapped within, giving rise to infections. Allergic reactions can also cause the same problem.
Sinusitis is not a life threatening condition and it may not cause any pain, but the condition can certainly cause a great deal of discomfort. The severity of sinusitis however defends on several factors, and it should also be pointed out that there are different types of sinusitis. Acute sinusitis, which is generally caused by bacterial infections of the sinus last for as long as four weeks, but acute sinusitis can last a lot longer, with the symptoms lingering for as long as three months. Chronic sinusitis involves long term swelling and inflammation of the sinus passages, which can again be caused by bacterial infection or fungi. Allergies could also be responsible for such prolonged cases of sinusitis. Acute sinusitis causes significant swelling and inflammation of the sinuses, which obstructs drainage from the sinuses, contributing to a mucus buildup. This adds to the problem of congestion and blockage, making normal breathing quite difficult, and the resultant buildup of pressure in the area can also cause severe headaches and facial pain, as well as a feeling of swelling and pressure around the eyes and nose.
Whether it is acute or chronic sinusitis that you are dealing with, the triggers could vary greatly including allergies, bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Acute sinusitis treatment always depends on the cause and in most cases common home remedies for sinusitis should help to control the problem. Persistent or recurring bouts of sinusitis may however be a lot harder to treat because of the risk of complications and more serious infections. Any incident of sinusitis that does not resolve within a month or so, or persists for well over a month or two would be referred to as chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis may often be caused by allergies or structural abnormalities in the region that most common treatments would fail to address.
If you suffer from chronic sinusitis or recurrent episodes of sinusitis it would be advisable to consult your health care provider.
Sinusitis Symptoms
Constant Sneezing, Headaches and Low Grade Fever
The symptoms of sinusitis include excessive or constant sneezing ; a running nose; blockage of one or both nostrils; headaches and pressure around the head, eyes, and face. Sinus headaches are usually felt in the forehead and in the face just below the eyes.The patient may suffer from low grade fever, lack of appetite, and difficulty in breathing.
When attempting to diagnose sinus infections it may help to look for sinusitis symptoms specific to the type of infection. Acute sinusitis typically occurs soon after the onset of a cold that refuses to improve, or after one that shows a worsening of the symptoms in five to seven days. Some of the symptoms you may notice in such a scenario include halitosis, a possible loss of smell, exhaustion, fever, severe headaches and a feeling of pressure, nasal congestion, sore throats, and coughing, which would very likely be severe at night.
Chronic sinusitis is a lot more persistent and severe problem, but fortunately for its victims, the symptoms are a lot less severe.
When attempting to diagnose sinus infections it may help to look for sinusitis symptoms specific to the type of infection. Acute sinusitis typically occurs soon after the onset of a cold that refuses to improve, or after one that shows a worsening of the symptoms in five to seven days. Some of the symptoms you may notice in such a scenario include halitosis, a possible loss of smell, exhaustion, fever, severe headaches and a feeling of pressure, nasal congestion, sore throats, and coughing, which would very likely be severe at night.
Chronic sinusitis is a lot more persistent and severe problem, but fortunately for its victims, the symptoms are a lot less severe.
Sinusitis Causes
Sinusitis Symptoms, Causes, Remedy and Diet
Inflammation of the Sinus Passages
Sinusitis results from the inflammation of the sinus passages and over secretion of mucus by the membranes lining the nose and throat.
The sinuses, which are air filled passages, or hollowed spaces within the skull, situated and spread out in the region just behind the forehead, cheeks and eyes, and in the nasal bones, are lined with mucus membranes. In a healthy individual there would be no bacterial or viral activity in the sinus passages, and mucus would drain out quite efficiently, allowing for a smooth circulation of air. Inflammation of the sinuses or an excessive production and buildup of mucus can restrict airflow however and also encourage the growth and proliferation of harmful bacteria and germs.
There are also more specific possible causes of sinusitis:
• A malfunctioning of the cilia, which are small hairs in the sinus that normally help mucus to drain out.
• Excessive mucus production, resulting in blockage of the sinuses, which could be caused by a cold or allergies.
• Very often, particularly in cases of chronic sinusitis a deviated nasal septum, nasal bone spur, or nasal polyps may be found to be responsible for a blockage that causes the problem.
Home Remedies for Sinusitis
Sinusitis home remedies and natural cures, Questions and answers
Sinusitis Treatment using Mango
The liberal use of mangoes during the season is considered an effective remedy for prevention and treatment of sinusitis. Mangoes contribute towards formation of healthy epithelium, thereby preventing frequent attacks of common infections like sinusitis. This is attributable to a high concentration of vitamin A in the fruit
Sinusitis Treatment using Garlic and Onion
The use of pungent foods like garlic and onion is one of the most effective remedies for sinus problems. One should begin with small mild doses and increase them gradually. Beneficial results can also be achieved by adding these herbs in moderate amounts to regular meals
Sinusitis Treatment using Fenugreek
The seeds of fenugreek are another effective remedy for sinusitis. A tea prepared by boiling one teaspoon of seeds in 250 ml of water till it is reduced to half, will help the body to produce perspiration, dispel toxicity, and shorten the period of fever in the acute stage of the disease. Up to four cups should be consumed daily. The quantity should be reduced as the condition improves
Sinusitis Treatment using Cumin Seeds
A teaspoon of black cumin seeds tied in a thin cotton cloth can provide relief when inhaled. The condition can also be relieved by taking a mixture of 100 gm of roasted and ground cumin seeds and 200 gm of pure honey
Sinusitis Treatment using Vegetable Juices
Carrot juice, taken separately or in combination with juices of beet and cucumber, or with spinach juice, has been found beneficial in the treatment of sinus trouble. In the case of combined juices, 100 ml each of beet and cucumber juices, or 200 ml of spinach juice, should be mixed with 300ml of carrot juice to make 500 ml or half a litre of the mixed juice
Sinusitis Treatment using Vitamins A and C
A diet rich in vitamin A is the best defense against cold and sinus trouble. Vitamin A helps build healthy mucus membranes in the nose and throat.
Some food sources that are rich in this vitamin include whole milk, yogurt, egg yolk, pumpkin, carrots, leafy vegetables, tomatoes, mangoes, and papaya. When the sinus trouble has already developed, relief can be obtained by taking vitamin A in large therapeutic doses of 25,000 IU per day. Vitamin C has also proved beneficial in the treatment of sinusitis and the patient should take one gram of this vitamin per day in two therapeutic doses of 500 mg each.
Home Remedies for Sinusitis
The symptoms of sinusitis and the treatment methods used are inseparable because most treatments for sinusitis, in adults and children alike, are meant to address the symptoms and provide relief. This is because viral infections and allergic reactions cannot really be cured with any medication, and most cases of sinusitis may be attributed to inflammation caused by allergies or due to a viral infection. In the event that a bacterial infection has caused the problem you may need to seek medical treatment with antibiotics. Under almost all other circumstances home remedies for sinusitis infections can help to relieve the headaches, congestion and other symptoms. The treatment of sinusitis infections in children or in pregnancy can be addressed with natural remedies for sinusitis that are quite effective but give you little cause for worry.
There are no miraculous or instant cures for sinusitis, but treatment with natural remedies for sinusitis can help to relieve the pain and other symptoms of sinusitis like headaches, fatigue, congestion or sore throats. Many of these treatments are particularly popular for those dealing with chronic sinusitis because of the recurrent nature of the condition. While prolonged usage of pharmaceuticals may pose certain long term risks, chronic sinusitis is best investigated by your health care provider so that the cause can be diagnosed accurately and treated accordingly. Home remedies can in such a scenario simply supplement conventional treatment, with the aim of providing relief.
Diet for Sinusitis
Sinusitis : Home Remedies suggested by users
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Juices with Water
In the acute stage of the disease, when fever is present, the patient should abstain from all solid foods and drink only fresh fruit and vegetable juices diluted with warm water in equal proportions.
Well-Balanced Diet
After the fever subsides, you may adopt a low-calorie, raw fruit and vegetable diet with plenty of raw juices. Once the acute symptoms are over, the patient may gradually switch to a well-balanced diet, with emphasis on seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. When dealing with chronic episodes of sinusitis short juice fasts may be undertaken for a week or so at intervals of two months.
Avoid Fried and Starchy Food
The patient should avoid fried and starchy foods, white sugar, rice, pasta, pies, cakes, and candies.
Other Sinusitis treatments
Hot and Cold Water Application
The application of warm and cold compresses is known to offer relief from pain and soothes inflammation, so it could help address sinus swelling from sinusitis.
Inhalation of Steam, Proper Sleep and Adequate Rest
Steam inhalation, using a diffuser or simply over a steaming bowl can help clear the sinus passages, offering some quick relief. Add a dash of some eucalyptus oil to combat the infection. Plenty of sleep, adequate rest, and fresh air are essential in the treatment of sinus trouble.
Avoid Perfumes and Scented Hair Oil
Patient should avoid the use of perfumes and strongly scented hair oil. Instead of using air fresheners, instead use natural essential oil fragrances with diffusers.
