Sinusitis is inflammation or inflammation of the sinus walls. Sinuses are small cavities that are connected to each other through airways in the skull. The sinuses are located behind the forehead bone, inside the cheekbones, on both sides of the bridge of the nose, and behind the eyes.
The sinuses produce mucus or mucus which functions to filter and clean bacteria or other particles in the inhaled air. In addition, the sinuses also function to help control the temperature and humidity of the air entering the lungs.
There are several types of sinusitis based on the duration of the disease, namely:
- Acute sinusitis. The most common type of sinusitis occurs and generally lasts for 2-4 weeks.
- Subacute sinusitis. This type of sinusitis lasts for 4-12 weeks.
- Chronic sinusitis. This type of sinusitis lasts for more than 12 weeks, and can continue for months or even years.
- Recurrent sinusitis. This type of acute sinusitis occurs up to 3 or more times a year.
Sinusitis Symptoms and Causes
When experiencing sinusitis, generally children will be fussy, cough, runny nose or stuffy nose. While in adults, symptoms of sinusitis can be:
- Swelling around the eyes.
- Pain in the face.
- Snot greenish yellow.
- Decreased function of the sense of smell.
Sinusitis is caused by a bacterial infection. This condition is more prone to be experienced by smokers, allergy sufferers, or people who often swim. Sinusitis can also be triggered by certain medical conditions, such as nasal polyps and allergic rhinitis. Sometimes, sinusitis symptoms can be similar to migraines. Sinusitis can also be experienced by pregnant women, especially if the pregnant woman has previously experienced sinusitis.
Sinusitis Treatment and Prevention
Sinusitis that is not treated immediately can lead to dangerous complications, such as infection of the brain or permanent loss of the sense of smell. Usually sinusitis is treated with medication. But in certain cases, sinusitis must be treated with surgery.
Sinusitis can be prevented in a number of ways, including:
- Quit smoking.
- Avoid people with colds and flu.
- Carry out flu immunizations according to schedule.