Sinus infection, also known as sinusitis happens when a patient's
nasal passage becomes infected. Many a times sinus is confused with the
symptoms of cold, however medically these conditions differ
significantly. Camelia Davtyan, MD and a professor of medicine at UCLA
suggests that cold does not necessarily cause sinus infections. However,
it does offer a breeding ground for the infection to develop. The
source of both these disorders is same- viruses, bacteria, allergies.
Sinusitis
causes inflammation or swelling of the tissues lining the sinuses.
Medically, healthy sinuses are filled with air, however, when they get
blocked with fluid, germs augment and cause infection. Camelia Davtyan
says that "You touch your nose a lot when you're sick, and each time you
bring more bacteria to the sinuses," and "Because your sinuses can't
drain, the bacteria stay there and grow."
What Causes Nose Blockage during Sinus?
- Nasal Polyps- Small growths in the lining of the nose.
- Common cold
- Allergic Rhinitis- Swelling of the lining of the nose.
- Deviated Septum- A shift in the nasal cavity.
What are the Types of Sinusitis?
- Acute Sinusitis- It usually starts with cold-like symptoms like facial pain, runny and stuffy nose. It starts suddenly and lasts for around two to four weeks.
- Subacute Sinus Inflammation- It possesses almost similar symptoms like acute sinusitis and lasts from four weeks to 12 weeks.
- Chronic Inflammation- It stays for 12 weeks or more.
- Recurrent Sinusitis- It is a recurring type which occurs for several times in a year.
What are the Symptoms of Sinusitis?
- Fever
- A cough
- Bad breath
- A severe headache
- Fatigue
- Sinus pressure behind the cheeks and eyes
- Running and stuffy nose for more than a week
- Thick green or yellow mucus draining from the nose or passing down the throat (postnasal drip)
- Weak smelling capability
What are the Precautionary Measures for Sinusitis?
There is no registered method to prevent sinusitis; however, adhering to the following precautions can help:
- Quit smoking completely. Moreover, avoid second-hand smoking as well.
- Maintain a habit of washing hands often with strictness during cold and flu season. Also, avoid touching your face.
- Stay away from elements to which you are allergic.
Sinus Treatment in San Antonio
Many
times you don't realize the need for urgent care, but you need it
immediately to control the abnormalities. Sinus infection is one such
medical problem which should be immediately addressed in an urgent care
unit. In San Antonio Gonzaba Urgent Care is one of the most sought
emergency facilities because of their excellence and compassion. For
more details book an appointment now.
