You hear a lot about sinus diseases, especially in the winter. The maxillary sinuses are located near the upper teeth, so one of the causes of inflammation may be, for example, a problem with caries. Untreated disease can lead to even very dangerous complications, such as encephalitis. Due to the fact that the maxillary sinuses have a rather complicated structure, it is very difficult to remove the secretion accumulated in them.
Among the causes of inflammation of the maxillary sinuses, we distinguish:
- Respiratory system infections – in over 80% of cases, i.e. related to flu or a prolonged runny nose during a cold. Very often, recurrent diseases and viral infections are the cause of the development of inflammation.
- Factors that aggravate maxillary sinusitis are also smoking and swimming.
- Inflammation can be caused by untreated teeth, extraction of the upper tooth or complications after root canal treatment. It is important that in the case of inflammation caused by a problem with the teeth, it develops only on one side of the face.
- It often develops in people suffering from bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis.
- Chronic disease may indicate polyps or anatomical defects of the sinuses, e.g. a crooked nasal septum.
To diagnose the disease, it is necessary to conduct a computed tomography scan and take an X-ray. If these tests raise doubts, your doctor may also order a sinus and nasal endoscopy. Untreated and chronic inflammation of the maxillary sinuses, which does not give clear symptoms, can lead to dangerous complications, such as: encephalitis and meningitis, brain abscesses, inflammation of the bones, sinus walls, orbital tissues, eye abscesses.
How to heal?
In order to prevent recurring sinus problems, support your immune system by using natural substances such as garlic, linden, ginger, dried herbs and teas. However, if home remedies do not work, you need to see a doctor. Treatment depends on what is causing the inflammation.
- If the cause is bacteria, antibiotics are given.
- In case of severe pain resulting from the presence of secretion in the maxillary sinuses, the sinus is punctured to remove what remains.
- In the case of a viral infection, the doctor prescribes rinsing the nasal cavity, the use of nasal drops, the purpose of which is to clear the mucous membrane, as well as the administration of anti-inflammatory and painkillers.
- When the symptoms continue to worsen or the symptoms of the disease do not subside, invasive treatment is necessary, which usually gives immediate improvement. It consists in straightening the nasal septum or widening the opening to the nasal passage.