Types, symptoms, and treatment of sinusitis (sinus infection)
Autumn is a season we associate with magnificent foliage, ripe fruits and the scent of cinnamon, but it is also associated with frequent changes in outdoor temperatures. One of the most common health problems during the cold months is sinus infection. Now that the season has arrived, we decided to shine more light on sinusitis, what types there are, what the most common symptoms are, and, of course, what the appropriate sinusitis treatment is.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis, also known as sinus infection, is an inflammation of the sinuses – air-filled spaces located around the nasal cavity in the skull. These cavities help the body filter and humidify the air we breathe. Sinusitis can affect people of all age groups. It occurs in both children and adults.
Types of sinusitis
Sinusitis can be acute or chronic depending on the duration and cause of the inflammation. Acute sinusitis is the result of viral infections, while chronic sinusitis can be caused by recurrent infections or problems with the structure of the nasal septum (e.g., a deviated septum). Acute sinusitis usually lasts from a few days to a few weeks, while chronic sinusitis refers to sinusitis that comes and goes over a period of years.
We distinguish between different types of sinusitis depending on the sinuses affected. The most common type is maxillary sinusitis, which affects the sinuses in the cheek area. There is also ethmoid sinusitis, where the inflammation is in the sinuses in-between the eyes. If the inflammation develops in the sinuses located above the eyes, we refer to it as frontal sinusitis. When the sinuses at the back of the skull are affected, we have a diagnosis of sphenoid sinusitis.
Diagnosing sinusitis or how do you know if you have a sinus infection
Many people wonder how do I know if I have a sinus infection.. The answer lies in careful observation of the symptoms. If you notice any signs of sinusitis and they persist for more than ten days or worsen, it is important to see a specialist. The diagnosis is made by an otolaryngologist after a thorough examination. Consultation with an ENT specialist is crucial because it allows for timely treatment of sinusitis and possible prevention of chronic complications.
Sinusitis symptoms or what are the typical inflamed sinus symptoms
The most common sinus infection symptoms include:
- Stuffy nose and difficulty breathing - Difficulty breathing through the nose is one of the most obvious symptoms of sinusitis. Patients usually report a feeling of heaviness, difficulty breathing, and loss of smell with sinusitis. This is due to inflammation and blockage of the sinuses.
- Postnasal drip - Inflammation of the sinuses often leads to a buildup of mucus or pus in the back of the nasal cavity, which drains into the throat. This can cause coughing, especially during sleep.
- Headache - Headaches are also among the symptoms that indicate sinus inflammation. If the inflammation affects the sinuses in the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes, you may experience a dull pain that worsens when you tilt your head forward.
- Common symptoms - Similar to other inflammatory processes, sinusitis may be accompanied by general malaise, including fever, cough, sore and red throat, and even bad breath.
- Toothache - The increase in sinus volume resulting from inflammation can lead to pain in the upper jaw. Some patients experience toothache, mainly in the upper molars and premolars.
There is a difference between the symptoms characteristic of chronic and acute sinusitis. In acute sinusitis, the symptoms appear suddenly and are usually severe. They include intense pain, nasal congestion, thick yellow or green discharge, headache, fatigue, and sometimes fever. The symptoms last up to several weeks. When talking about symptoms of chronic sinusitis, we should mention that they last for months. They include constant nasal congestion, light thick discharge, a feeling of pressure or heaviness in the face, reduced sense of smell, and constant fatigue. The pain is usually milder, but the discomfort is prolonged and may worsen with colds.
Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the logical question is how to clear sinuses, how to relieve sinus pressure and how to treat sinusitis at home.
Recommended home sinusitis treatment or how to deal with sinusitis at home
- Nasal rinses - One of the most effective ways to relieve nasal congestion is to rinse with saline or salt solution. This method helps to remove accumulated secretions and pus from the nasal cavity, thereby improving breathing and reducing inflammation. It is recommended to do a wash first, as this will facilitate the penetration of steam during inhalation later on. Sea water sprays are available at pharmacies.
- Inhalations - Steam inhalations can also be included in sinusitis treatment at home. They help moisturize the nasal mucosa and thin secretions, which makes breathing easier. You can use boiling water in a bowl and inhale the steam. For a better effect, we recommend adding a few drops of essential oil, such as eucalyptus or mint.
- Warm compresses on the face - Heating the sinuses can also be part of the treatment, as heat enlarges the blood vessels. Warm compresses on the nose, forehead, and eye area improve blood circulation and help relieve pain.
- Use a humidifier - Indoor air is often dry in winter, which can worsen sinus conditions. Using a humidifier in your room can also be part of your home treatment for inflamed sinuses. Humidifying the air helps keep the nasal mucosa hydrated, preventing it from drying out and becoming irritated.
How to get rid of a sinus infection, or what treatment for sinus inflammation do we apply at PhysioArt?
One of the main principles in our work is an individual approach to each patient. We treat them with care and attention, applying the following methods for sinus infection treatment:
- Ultrasound therapy - It helps liquify mucus and pus in the sinuses, which facilitates the drainage of secretions and relieves nasal congestion.
- Low-frequency magnetic field - Magnetic therapy has a proven effect on inflammatory processes, which is why it is included in our sinusitis treatment programs.
- Laser treatment of sinusitis - Laser therapy is used to reduce inflammation, help clear the nose more quickly, and relieve the symptoms of sinusitis.
All these therapies are applied individually, depending on the patient’s needs and condition. We combine these and other methods, as well as recommendations for home care, for even better results.
PhysioArt Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy Center, Sofia
We hope you have found answers to your questions about what sinusitis is and whether it can be treated. If you have any further questions or would like to make an appointment with us, please call us on + 359 89 872 4175. You will find us in the heart of Sofia, at 21 Prof. Fritjof Nansen Street.