Symptoms and Treatment of a Sinus Infection
Sinus infection also known as sinusitis is a term used to describe inflammation and swelling of the sinus cavity. Sinus infections are either acute or chronic and may exhibit similar or very different symptoms, requiring different treatments on a case-by-case basis.
A number of reasons can cause acute sinus infections but most often, they result from having the common cold. Acute infections last for less than eight weeks. Chronic sinus infections are the most common type of infection and are caused by a number of different reasons. They last longer than eight weeks, and keep coming back.
Causes of Sinus Infection
There are many different reasons someone may suffer from a sinus infection. Some of the most common things that can lead to sinus infection include:
* Viral infections – common cold
* Allergens
* Bacteria
* Fungi
* Nasal polyps
* Deviated septum
* Tooth infection
* Facial trauma
Symptoms of Sinus Infection
Symptoms of both acute and chronic sinus infection are similar in nature except that chronic sinus infection lasts longer, can cause more complications, and may require specialized treatments. Some of the symptoms present with sinus infection include:
* Inflamed sinuses
* Headache
* Thick nasal congestion with a green or yellow color
* Tenderness and pressure around the eyes, nose, and cheeks
* Fever
* Cough
* Sore throat
* Bad breath
* Toothache
* Ear Ache
* Irritability
Possible Complications Arising from Having a Sinus Infection
Many complications may possibly arise from having a sinus infection depending on the severity of the infection. Possible complications include:
* Asthma attacks – some who has asthma and who suffers from a sinus infection is more prone to asthma attacks because the symptoms of sinus infection can trigger an asthma episode.
* Vision problems – when sinus infections are not properly treated or and left untreated too long, the eye socket may also become infected, causing potential vision problems.
* Blood clots – sinus infections can affect the veins that surround the sinuses and cause blood clots. When these blood clots form, blood supply to the brain is impaired and may lead to a stroke.
* Meningitis – if not treated properly or if left untreated, a sinus infection can spread to the membranes lining the brain.
* Ear Aches – ear, nose, and throat cavities join, making it possible for a sinus infection to spread to the ear, causing the ear to become infected.
* Acute to chronic – someone suffering from acute sinus infection may transition to chronic from recurring infections.
Treatment of Sinus Infection
When treating sinus infections, doctors will prescribe various medications depending on the severity of each case in an effort to cure the infection while simultaneously reducing inflammation and keeping the sinuses draining. Some of the medications used to treat sinus infection include:
* Antibiotics – such as penicillin, amoxicillin, bactrim, cotrim, septra, augmentin, lorabid, or ceftin, prescribed to eliminate the infection.
* Over-the-counter drugs – used in conjunction with prescription medications
* Decongestants in oral or spray application, such as Sudafed, Actifed, or Afrin help open up the nasal passages.
* Pain relievers such as Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, or aspirin help relieve headache pain.
* Steroids – prescribed to eliminate inflammation and further open up the sinuses, such as Prednisone.
* Allergy shots
* Surgery
How to Reduce the Risk of Getting a Sinus Infection
Whether acute or chronic, sinus infections are unpleasant and cause a good bit of discomfort. There are several things you can do to safeguard yourself and reduce your risk for getting a sinus infection, which include:
* Take allergy medications as prescribed to keep allergy symptoms under control.
* Avoid smoke from all tobacco products.
* Stay away from family, friends, and co-workers that have a cold or respiratory infection.
* Depending on your heat source, you may need to use a humidifier to add moisture to the air you breathe.
* Wash your hands frequently to fight down germs
By taking care of yourself, steering clear of sick family members, friends, and co-workers, you may be able to lower your risk of developing a sinus infection. If you are having any of these symptoms, you should consult with your physician to ensure proper treatment and avoid the more serious symptoms and complications.
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DISCLAIMER: All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a guarantee of any success. This information has been previously researched but you should do your own research to expand your knowledge. This should not be consider as medical advice.