Recurrent cough and non-improving nasal discharge implies Sinusitis

  •  SINUS is an open space in the anatomy of skull, that helps to lighten the weight of the skull. 
  • Ethmoid sinuses present behind the nose helps in humidifying the air before reaching the lungs.
  • Frontal sinus, maxillary sinus, sphenoid sinus helps in secretion of mucus that helps in trapping of allergens and infections.
Let's see it diagrammatically, where are these sinuses located:-
  1.  Frontal sinuses are located in the forehead near eye brows.
  2. Ethmoid sinuses are located near the tip of nose and lacrimal gland
  3. Maxillary sinus are located bilaterally above the upper jaw in the cheek area under the eyes.
  4. Sphenoid sinus are located in the cranial part of intranasal surface.
The condition that we discussed above is physiological (normal) and common in every individual.

There can be malfunctioning, overproduction or underproduction of the protective mucus and also the deposition of mucus in the spaces. 

Let's throw some light at some pathologic conditions associated with sinusitis [Inflammation(swelling) of tissues in sinuses].

                                  SINUSITIS

It is pathological condition which is caused due to inflammation of tissues of sinuses which are filled with air and cause stuffing of nose, headache and pain in the sinus area.

Types of sinusitis

Acute Sinusitis: Sinus infection present from 4 weeks or less.

Chronic Sinusitis: Sinus infection present beyond 1 year.

Subacute Sinusitis: Sinus infection present from 3 months or less.

Causes of Sinusitis

  •  Previous Cold
  • Seasonal allergies
  • Structural problems of sinus
  • Primary smoking and secondary smoking
  • Weak immune system
  • Nasal polyps

Symptoms of Sinusitis

  • Bad breath
  • Loss of smell
  • Cough, worse at night
  • Fatigue
  • Physical discomfort
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Pressure like pain, pain behind the eyes
  • Toothache
  • Tenderness of face
  • Nasal stuffiness and discharge
  • Sore throat

Treatment of Sinusitis

  • Saline nasal sprays
  • Nasal corticosteroids
  • Decongestants
  • Anti-allergic medication
  • Pain relievers
  • Steam inhalation
  • Symptomatic treatment as per bacterial, viral or fungal infection



Disclaimer- This article is for informational purposes only.
Advice:- In case you find any above mentioned symptoms, please consult your physician immediately.

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