Sinus Infection
A sinus infection is an inflammation of the various sinus passages that are connected to the nasal passages. They may be caused by viral, bacterial, fungal or allergic causes. It is estimated by the National Institutes of Health that 37 million people are affected by sinus infections each year. Most cases of sinusitis start with the common cold. Colds can inflame the sinuses and cause the symptoms of sinusitis such as pain and pressure behind the eyes, forehead and cheeks. Viral infections or bacterial infections can exacerbate the symptoms and cause the infection to last for several days to weeks depending on the severity of the infection.
There are two types of sinus infection, acute sinus infection and chronic sinus infection. Acute sinusitis lasts for less than 8 weeks with each episode averaging a duration of less than 10 days. Acute sinusitis occurs no more than 3 times per year. Chronic sinusitis lasts longer than 8 weeks and occurs more than 4 times a year. Symptoms with chronic sinusitis can last for more than 20 days.
There are many causes for a sinus infection. An acute case of sinusitis can usually be triggered by a viral respiratory infection like a common cold. Allergens or pollutants can also trigger attacks of acute sinusitis. A viral infection can cause damage to the cells of the sinus lining, leaving them more vulnerable to infection. This damage can lead to inflammation which causes the pain and pressure felt by patients with sinusitis. The sinus passages are often filled with fluid which causes pressure on the eyes, forehead, cheeks and nasal passages, causing extreme discomfort.
Chronic sinusitis may be caused by more serious bacterial infections or the presence of nasal polyps. Treatment for chronic and acute sinusitis can differ in terms of aggressiveness. A sinus infection can be managed conservatively with acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage the inflammation and reduce the swelling. Nasal douches or over the counter nasal medications can be used to help reduce the pressure in the sinuses and clear out the fluid buildup.
For more serious cases of sinus infection, antibiotics may be used to clear up bacteria that has become trapped in the sinus passages and is infecting the sinus tissue. The type of antibiotic usually depends upon the severity of infection. For more acute cases, a short course of antibiotics may be prescribed. For more chronic cases, a broader spectrum antibiotic may be prescribed for a longer period of time. Nasal corticosteroids may also be prescribed for more chronic cases.
