Sinusitis is a common condition that can affect anyone at any time, causing discomfort and affecting their daily routine. Understanding its symptoms and causes helps an asthma specialist to effectively manage and treat the condition. Here is more information to help you determine if you have sinusitis:
What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, occurs when the tissue lining in the sinuses becomes inflamed or swollen. It can be brought about by infections, allergies, and other conditions that lead to blockage of the nasal passages. Sinusitis can be classified into two main types: acute and chronic. Acute sinusitis may last for a short time and is usually a result of a cold. Chronic sinusitis may take several weeks or more to heal and will sometimes reoccur. Knowing the type of sinusitis you have will help guide your treatment options.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Sinusitis?
Diagnosis of sinusitis entails knowing the signs of the disease, which ranges from mild to severe. The doctor may do testing to get a better look inside your sinus cavity and spot inflammation and signs of infection. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion is one of the signs of sinusitis and might occur as a result of crusting and narrowing of the nasal passages. Some of the signs of nasal congestion include blockage of the nostrils, thick mucus, and pain around the sinus tract. This can lead to difficulty breathing through the nose.
Pressure and Headaches
Some of the symptoms of sinusitis include a feeling of pressure in the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes. This discomfort may be aggravated when bending forward or lying down. A sinus headache is typical and can result from pressure in the sinus. These headaches may be described as dull, throbbing, or tight in the forehead and eye region.
Discolored Nasal Discharge
Sinusitis may result in the production of sticky and thick mucus. When you have thick, yellow, or green nasal discharge, it can be an indication of a sinus infection. The discolored discharge can be a result of the body’s immune response to the infection. Visit a doctor when you experience persistent discolored mucus.
Fever and Coughing
Sinusitis is sometimes accompanied by mild fever, which indicates that the body is trying to fight an infection. This may be associated with other conditions, including fatigue and discomfort. A persistent cough occurs due to postnasal drip, where mucus drips down the throat. This irritates the throat and triggers a cough reflex, which may be persistent and worsen over time.
What Are My Treatment Options?
To diagnose sinusitis, an asthma specialist will perform tests such as checking whether your nose is regularly congested. A computer tomography scan or nasal endoscopy can be done if the doctor wants to investigate the sinuses further. Treatment for sinusitis will vary based on the cause and severity of the condition. Acute sinusitis calls for the use of over-the-counter treatments, including decongestants and pain relievers. In cases of chronic sinusitis, comprehensive treatment, including nasal corticosteroid, saline nasal, and septoplasty, may be done to fix sinus blockage.
Visit an Asthma Specialist
Certain sinus issues can be treated at home, but consulting a doctor is useful in case symptoms persist. A consultation with a healthcare provider will allow you to get treatment for sinusitis and improved breathing. Schedule an appointment with a sinus doctor to help manage and treat your condition.
