Sinusitis

Sinusitis means infection of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled spaces within the bones of the face. They are situated in the cheeks, forehead and around the eyes. The sinuses are connected together, and linked to the nose and throat, via narrow channels called ostia. One function of the sinuses is to warm and moisten inhaled air before it reaches the lungs. The sinuses are also lined with cells that help prevent infection by producing mucus to trap particles of dirt and other pollutants that are breathed in.

Symptoms

• Blocked nose
• Feeling of pressure inside the face
• Facial pain, particularly when leaning forward
• Headache
• Aching teeth in the upper jaw
• Yellow or green-colored mucus from the nose
• Swelling of the face
• Loss of the senses of smell and taste
• Persistent cough
• Generally feeling unwell.

Treatment options

Decongestants that help with symptoms of colds usually do not help with sinusitis. Nose sprays can even make the problem worse, if they are used for too long, because they can cause more swelling. Antibiotics are often prescribed for sinusitis. Most people will recover fully from sinusitis in a week or so without antibiotics, but they may recover more quickly if effective antibiotics are used. Other options to manage the symptoms of sinusitis include:

• Steam inhalation, perhaps including a few drops of eucalyptus oil
• Comfortably hot compresses held against the face
• Pain relief medication, such as paracetamol.