The sinuses are such a complex part of our bodies that not many people are fully aware of where they are or how they work. Sinusitis, is inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the sinuses resulting in symptoms that may include thick nasal mucus, a plugged nose, and facial pain. Other signs and symptoms may include fever, headaches, a poor sense of smell, sore throat, and a cough. It is defined as acute sinusitis if it lasts less than 4 weeks, and as chronic sinusitis if it lasts for more than 12 weeks.

Sinusitis can be caused by infection, allergies, air pollution, or structural problems in the nose. Most cases are caused by a viral infection. Recurrent episodes are more likely in persons with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and poor immune function.

An infected sinus can be a very frustrating thing, which is why we’ve gathered a list of five of the most common symptoms below:

1. Your face hurts

Soreness is usually an indication that you really gave your muscles a challenge. But if it’s your face that’s sore, you might have a problem. Facial pain may be a sign that your sinuses are infected and blocked.

2. Your teeth ache

A toothache may not be due to problems with your teeth at all. In fact, “dental pain is probably the most overlooked sinus infection symptom. This is usually related to a maxillary (or cheek) sinusitis as the upper tooth roots will often extend close to the sinus.

3. You can’t get rid of your headache

Many different issues can cause a headache: too much movement, dehydration or even just being tired. However, if you’ve had a chronic headache for a number of days, then pressure may be a sign that you have a sinus infection. If you think this may be the case, visit your doctor since most sinus infections are viral and won’t respond to antibiotics.

4. You can’t smell

If you’re having trouble smelling both sweet scents and nasty odors, then you may have a sinus infection. Loss of sense of smell can occur with sinusitis from the inflammation around the olfactory, or smell, organ. That’s why such symptoms indicate that you’re beginning to come down with a potential sinus infection.

5. You feel far too much pressure If you wake up and find that your head feels cloudy, heavy, and generally uncomfortable, then your sinuses may be to blame. Before your sinuses get infected, they first start off being blocked. This uncomfortable blockage is what leads all of that tension to build up and feel intense, potentially signposting that more sinus infections symptoms will be coming your way shortly.

Solutions to Sinusitis

Antibiotics are not needed for many sinus infections. Your child’s doctor may give an antibiotic prescription but suggest that you wait 2–3 days to see if your child is still sick before filling it.

• Clean your hands.
• Receive recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine.
• Avoid close contact with people who have colds or other upper respiratory infections.
• Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Use a clean humidifier to moisten the air at home.
• Put a warm compress over the nose and forehead to help relieve sinus pressure.
• Use a decongestant or saline nasal spray.
• Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water or shower.

Source: Internet & Others

The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.