What Is Sinusitis

Sinusitis is also called a sinus infection. It is defined as inflammation of a nasal sinus. It can be caused by any number of issues such as an infection, a virus, nasal polyps (growths in the sinuses) or when there is swelling of the sinus lining. Sometimes it can be the bought about by a common cold. Sinusitis can also be caused by bacteria, fungal infections, tooth infections or allergies.

5 Common Causes of Sinusitis

1. Dry Air – When the air is dry this can cause the sinuses to become dried out and cracked. This can allow bacteria to lodge in the sinuses and cause issues. While the air in South Florida is normally not dry, indoor environments that are controlled by air conditioning or heaters can cause this symptom.

2. Pollutants and Irritants in the Air – Unless you live in a totally controlled environment with a HEPA filter and never leave the house you are going to be exposed to any number of particulates that might be in the air wherever you go. These particulates range from pollen and dust to mold, fungus and mildew. Other pollutants that can affect your sinuses include chemicals with strong scents, and positively charged ions that can be caused by electronic devices and computers.

3. Viruses and Bacteria – If a virus or a bacteria is not present, none of the other causes listed will not lead to sinusitis. When either is present, along with one of the other items on this list, a sinus infection can happen. It can be passed along from person to person through hand to hand contact or if you touch someone or something that has been contaminated and you then touch your nose, mouth or eyes.

4. Allergies – Anyone who has suffered from allergies knows that they can cause the nasal passages to become inflamed. This might present the sinuses to be unable to properly drain which can lead to a sinus infection. If a person has allergies sinusitis tends to be present.

5. Overuse of Nasal Products – Products like nasal decongestants, which can temporarily relieve congestion, can also cause the blood vessels in the nose to constrict. After extensive use of sprays and other nasal products can lead to a reduction of effectiveness and dependency on the product. They can even worsen sinusitis symptoms if not used as directed by a doctor or pharmacist or should they be abused.

4 Common Treatment of Sinusitis

1. Sprays, Irrigation, corticosteroids – Nasal sprays can prevent and treat nasal inflammation. They include Nasal corticosteroid sprays such as fluticasone or triamcinolone. When used with sprays, an irrigation method such as a Neti Pot can rinse irritants away. For sever sinusitis, with or without polyps, oral or injected corticosteroids may be the answer. Just be aware of potential side effects.

2. Antibiotics – If there is a bacterial infection, the answer just might be antibiotics. Check with your physician to see if this is the appropriate treatment for your condition.

3. Immunotherapy – When allergies are a contributing reason for your sinusitis, immunotherapy might be the superior course of treatment. Check with your doctor to see if allergy shots are the best treatment.

4. Surgery – When sinusitis is resistant to the above treatments, surgery might by the best choice. This procedure will find the doctor using a thin tube with a light (endoscope) to discover what is causing your condition. For certain causes and obstructions the doctor has a variety of instruments to deal with your specific problem.

Whenever you are suffering from any of the symptoms of sinusitis, contact our conveniently located Pembroke Pines offices for an appointment. The professional staff at Southeastern Ear, Nose, Throat, Sinus Center are here to relieve your symptoms with the latest treatments.