|
Identifying the Symptoms of Sinusitis |
|
|
|
Sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses become inflamed due to an infection. The infection may be viral, bacterial or fungal in nature. Sinusitis may also develop because of allergic reactions triggered in the body because of exposure to environmental irritants.
In this disease, the sinus cavities are clogged with bacteria and germs that spread the infection. It affects the normal sinus ventilation and drainage system, leading to nasal congestion and thick yellowish or green-colored nasal discharge.
Sinusitis often follows cold or asthma attacks. Some times, cold or asthma attacks may pass off, leaving behind an infection in the sinuses, which can develop into sinusitis.
Depending on its severity and duration, sinusitis can be classified as either acute or chronic. If the infection lasts for at least two or three weeks, it is acute sinusitis. However, if the infection lingers on longer and does not respond to treatment, it is called as chronic sinusitis.
Common sinusitis symptoms include cough, wheezing, fever, headache, toothache, nasal blockage and discharge, postnasal drip, especially while lying down or sleeping, foul breath, running or blocked nose and fatigue or tiredness combined with a general feeling of being unwell.
Often the patient along with other symptoms also experiences a feeling of pressure in the ears or around the eye.. Patients may also experience a redness of the eyes and constriction of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing.
In many cases, the disease improves on its own, but it may require treatment with antibiotics, decongestants and other similar medication, depending on the severity and the kind of sinusitis symptoms a person may experience.
Regardless of the severity of the sinus infection, it is important to treat it immediately because untreated sinusitis can often lead to serious medical complications. To avert this possibility, timely diagnosis and prompt treatment is very essential.
|
