It's not clear exactly what causes sinusitis to become chronic (long-lasting), but it has been associated with: allergies and related conditions, including allergic rhinitis, asthma and hay fever. nasal polyps (growths inside the nose) smoking.
Irritating pollutants. Allergens and pollutants in the air - like dust, outdoor air pollution, and strong odors like perfume - may contribute to coughing, irritate your nose, and cause inflammation that can increase your risk of sinusitis, according to Dr. Bains.
Food to Avoid
Avoid dairy if you have had previous episodes of sinus infections. Also, try to avoid refined sugar as it is pro-inflammatory and increases the production of mucus. Other foods to avoid include tomatoes (contain histamines), chocolate, cheese, gluten, and fruits like bananas, which can cause congestion.
Sinusitis is usually the result of a cold or flu virus spreading to the sinuses from the upper airways. Only a few cases are caused by bacteria infecting the sinuses. An infected tooth or fungal infection can also occasionally cause the sinuses to become inflamed.
If you have a weak immune system , you are more likely to develop sinus infection from bacteria or mold. Other things that can cause sinus infections are colds, seasonal allergies, nasal polyps or a deviated septum.
Acute sinusitis symptoms (nasal congestion, drainage, facial pain/pressure and decreased sense of smell) last less than four weeks. It's usually caused by viruses like the common cold. Subacute sinusitis symptoms last four to 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis symptoms last at least 12 weeks.
Blowing the nose can worsen the feeling of congestion due to pressure build-up within the nostrils, which may shoot up the mucus into the sinuses instead of ejection through the nose.
If your sinus infection just won't go away or keeps coming back, it may be time to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. An ENT treats conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head, face, and neck. It may be time to see an ENT if: You've completed several courses of antibiotics without success.
Suppose your sinus pressure is causing you severe discomfort. In that case, you can try taking an OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for pressure and pain relief. NSAIDs, like Aleve (naproxen) or Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen), typically work better than Tylenol (acetaminophen), said Dr. Takashima.
In a technical sense, stress itself does not cause sinus problems. However, it can leave your body susceptible to infections, including sinus infections. If you have an existing infection or other sinus issues, stress can also worsen these symptoms or infections.
Left untreated, a sinus infection has the potential to spread to your meninges (the protective coverings around your brain and spinal cord), causing them to become inflamed — a condition called meningitis. Meningitis gives rise to the following signs and symptoms: Sudden, high-grade fever. Neck stiffness.
Changes in Your Blood Flow
The theory is that when you lie down, the blood vessels in your sinuses open up a little. In most cases, this isn't an issue, it's just a normal part of living. But when you have a sinus infection, this increased blood flow and higher blood pressure may result in greater inflammation.
A sinus infection is diagnosed in a physical exam by a primary care doctor, who will look inside your nasal cavity and check for sinus pressure or tenderness by gently touching or feeling your face.
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