Managing Sinus Infections

Infections and allergies may affect the condition of sinuses. Sinuses are usually cavities within the skull. The cavities are situated above the eyes and they connect the nasal cavities. The surfaces of sinuses are characterized by the presence of cilia. The microscopic hairs serve the purpose of cleaning the cavities. In addition, the cilia facilitate the movement of mucus within this space.

When the health and conditions of the sinuses is compromised by the presence of disease causing pathogens, the result may be devastating. Infections and irritations of the lining may lead to poor drainage of these cavities and hence mucus clogs the sinuses. As a result of this, the sinuses swell.

The swelling of the sinuses is caused by different agents. For some, it may be an allergic reaction. For others it may be caused by bacteria or viruses. Irritants are also causes of inflammation of sinuses. The causative agent may determine whether sinusitis is acute or chronic.

Sinusitis affects the different sinus cavities in different ways. The types of cavities include the   frontal  sinus, the ethmoid sinus, sphenoid and maxillary sinuses. Each of these sinus cavities occur in pairs which are located on the sides of the nose. Infections to these sinuses are different and their symptoms may vary from one infection to another.

The ethmoid sinuses are situated between the sockets of the eye above the nose. Infections to these sinuses result to them inflammation of the lining as well as the blockage of the drainage ducts known as ostia. The resultant ethmoid sinusitis causes mucus build-up and further infections. Congestion of the nasal channels and discharges are some of the symptoms. Other people experience pain in the corners of the eye or there may be pain within the nose.

 Frontal  sinusitis is also another acute form of sinusitis. The lining of this cavity is usually inflamed. It may lead to much worse conditions if it is not addressed in good time. For example, it may lead to deficiency in immunity since the  frontal  sinus activities are impaired. Patients may experience nasal congestion, facial pains and even  frontal  headaches. Sever coughs are also some of the common symptoms of  frontal  sinusitis.

The sphenoid sinuses are located at the back of the nose. This is specifically at the brain’s base. Sphenoid sinusitis may lead to severe and persistent headaches. Individuals suffering from sphenoid sinusitis usually experience problems when they stand for long periods of time or when they stoop.

Maxillary sinusitis occurs when drainage of the maxillary sinuses does not occur properly. It is generally recommended that the problem should be handled in its initial stages before it advances to more complicated stages. It is worth noting that the maxillary sinuses are situated on either sides of the nose just above the teeth and beneath the cheeks. When blockages of drainage channels of this cavity occur, it may lead to severe pains such as toothaches.

These sinus infections can be prevented by avoiding contact with people who have common colds. It is also recommended that individuals get flu vaccinations that would help minimize the risk of infections. Individuals are also encouraged to observe healthy diets rich in vitamins.