A runny nose can be annoying, but in most cases it goes away on its own after a few days. It happens, however, that the ailment does not go away – worse, headaches and other symptoms join it. In this case, sinus involvement may be suspected. Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses very often accompanies the common cold. The disease requires therapy, because if left untreated, it can develop into a chronic form and be associated with many dangerous complications.
Symptoms of sinusitis
Sinusitis usually causes a number of symptoms. Do not ignore chronic runny nose, recurrent headaches that intensify in the area of the affected sinus (usually near the base of the nose and within the forehead). Ailments that intensify in the morning and intensify when bending the head should be of concern.
It is worth paying attention to the nature of nasal discharge. In the course of sinusitis, watery discharge may occur, which leads to nasal blockage – these symptoms indicate a viral infection. In an infection of bacterial etiology, a thick, purulent discharge from the nose appears. Secretion flowing down the back wall of the throat contributes to additional ailments – it causes hoarseness, chronic cough, forces you to clear your throat. The disease sometimes presents with general symptoms such as fever, weakness, general malaise and loss of appetite.
Inflammation can affect the frontal, ethmoid or maxillary sinuses. Inflammation of the frontal sinuses is manifested by pain in the forehead area, and maxillary sinusitis – pain in the teeth and jaw, as well as pain in the cheek when pressed.
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Viral or bacterial sinusitis is more at risk for allergy sufferers, people suffering from recurrent respiratory tract infections, patients with caries or anatomical abnormalities, such as hypertrophy of the tonsils, adenoids, and a crooked nasal septum.
Treatment of sinusitis can be complicated – it is important to start it as soon as possible. Mild sinusitis that is just beginning can be treated with home remedies. However, if symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few days, you should contact your doctor who will prescribe appropriate therapy.
Home remedies for sinusitis
Sinus pain is relieved by inhalations of the respiratory tract – steam, inhalations with the addition of salt, herbs or camphor oil are helpful. Cover your head with a towel, bend it over the bowl and breathe deeply. This type of treatment helps to clear the respiratory tract of secretion and brings relief. It should be done 3 times a day for 10 minutes.
In the case of sinusitis, you can also support yourself with warm compresses. Heated, linen bags (filled with salt or mustard) should be applied to the forehead and cheeks several times a day. Moisturizing the respiratory tract also brings relief – you should drink plenty of fluids – it is worth reaching for warm herbal infusions and non-carbonated mineral water. The ailment is also relieved by professional humidifiers, which help maintain the proper humidity of the air in the room where the patient is staying. People who do not have such devices can hang thick, wet towels on the radiators. If your child is sick, it is worth hanging wet towels or diapers near the cot.