There have been a few times when a stuffy nose didn’t improve with time despite flu medication, which is annoying to anyone.The doctor said it could be sinusitis, a disease made up of sinusitis Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. it is often accompanied by Headache, sore throat and cough.
Sinusitis is an infectious process in the paranasal sinuses. “paranasal sinuses are hollowing in the face, behind the forehead, which is filled with air and connected to the nostrils through drainage holes. When they are healthy, mucus can be expelled and air can circulate without problems”, says ENT doctor Alejandro Rojas.
this disease It is characterized by a buildup of fluid that allows microorganisms to multiply. Therefore, most sinusitis is the result of an inflammatory response to a viral or bacterial infection.
Medlineplus website suggests sinusitis It happens when the little hairs in the sinuses fail to clear mucus properly.when a cold or allergies lead to excess mucus or blocked sinus openings, Deviated septum blocking sinus openings When a chronic infection inflames the mucous membranes.
Types of Sinusitis
Sinusitis can be divided into acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis. The first, which can last up to four weeks, is most commonly caused by a bacterial infection, while the second, which can last up to three months with symptoms and swelling, is caused by bacteria and fungi.
There is another subdivision, which is subacute sinusitis, It is characterized by the onset of symptoms and inflammation for one to three months.
According to allergist Juan Pablo Masseli, sinusitis is often Previous episodes of strong flu It started out as a viral infection, but it turned into a bacterial infection as mucus built up in the cavity.
How do I know if I have sinusitis?
The most common symptoms of sinusitis are production of yellow or green mucus and/or phlegm, nasal congestion, sneezing, headache, cough, and in some cases fever, halitosis (bad-smelling mouth), and even dizziness.
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The disease affects both children and adults, so the symptoms are very similar for both.
treat
Experts say it’s important See a doctor if you have any symptomsbecause these processes require treatment with antibiotics and other medicines that can only be prescribed by a doctor.
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“Treatment is based on long-term use of antibiotics., nasal washes, nasal anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes antihistamines, but treatment varies from person to person. Many times other tests are needed, such as X-rays or CT scans,” says Masseli.
With treatment, you can warming the nose and forehead Helps relieve sinus pressure. You can also use a decongestant or saline solution, as well as inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or a shower.
Sinusitis is curable with proper treatment, but can resubmit later through risk factors.
risk factors
Both adults and children Allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, flu course, seasonal allergiessmoking and a weakened immune system may be risk factors for sinusitis.
To prevent this, it is recommended to wash your hands frequently, complete your annual vaccination schedule including flu and pneumococcal vaccines, avoid close contact with people who have colds or upper respiratory infections, and make sure you use a clean humidifier.