Headache Updates

Sinusitis is a condition of the inflammation of the sinuses, caused due to infections or allergies. In case sinusitis is due to an allergic reaction, the condition is referred to as allergic sinusitis.

In most cases, sinusitis is because of an allergic reaction to dust, pollen, fungi or other allergens. Allergic sinusitis may also be an allergic reaction to certain foods lie milk or eggs or exposure to animal hair or cockroaches. A person may be allergic to any substance or agent in the surrounding environment. This may cause allergies that result in sinusitis.

Allergic sinusitis occurs most commonly in individuals who are not immunocompetent or have a history of chronic rhinitis. This condition is most common in adolescents and young adults.

In sinusitis, the sinuses are filled with greenish black or brown-colored secretion. It is the allergic reaction that results in the secretion of this material. This material is accumulated in the sinuses, causing blockage and inflammation of the infected region. There is however, no tissue erosion, invasion or expansion along the walls of the sinuses.

The common symptoms include headache, wheezing, fever, cough, facial pressure, nasal stuffiness and discharge.

Diagnosis is carried out by pathological and radiological tests. If sinusitis is confirmed, then treatment consists of  a combination of antibiotics, steroids and surgery.

Open surgery or nasal endoscopy procedures may be used to extract accumulated debris and any polyps if formed. However, the unfortunate part is that even surgery does not guarantee a non-recurrence of this disease.

Immunotherapy and anti-inflammatory treatments are now being used to avert recurrence of and manage allergic sinusitis. It would in any case, be prudent to seek the advice of a skilled and experienced medical practitioner, in case you are suffering from allergic rhinitis. Only professional medical help will enable you to receive proper treatment for this condition.