Acute Sinusitis – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Acute sinusitis is a milder type of sinusitis when compared to the other classifications. Sinusitis generally refers to the infection and congestion of the nasal cavity and facial sinuses. Usually, the affected areas are the major sinuses, which can be found at the nose, cheeks and around the eyes.

Sinuses can be described as “hairy” tunnels, which act as filters to clean breathed air. It contains cilia or hair filaments and mucus that traps dirt and drains it out of the body through the nose. However, if the defense system of the sinuses fails, virus and bacteria may penetrate and infect the lining cells. This will cause the inflammation called sinusitis.

Classification and Symptoms of Sinus Infection

The most common mode of classification is based on the duration of the infection. Acute sinusitis is the mildest, which lasts for less than 4 weeks. The sub-acute type goes on for 4-8 weeks. The first two types are usually viral and easier to cure than the third. The last type, which is bacteria-caused, is called chronic sinusitis. This may last for more than 8 weeks, and can occur for more than 4 times within a year.

The acute type is very common. Around 90 percent of all adults around the world have experienced it at least once in their lives. It is accompanied with facial pain, head ache and clogged nose.

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to treat mild sinusitis is through resting, eating healthy and drinking lots of water. Hydrating the body will help hydrate the sinuses, allowing them to efficiently drain mucus and debris. A well-rested body can help boost the immune system to finally get rid of the infectious virus. There is no need for antibiotics because these work exclusively on bacterial (or worst type of) sinusitis.

Acute sinusitis can be prevented by avoiding pollution. Also, stop smoking and stay away from second-hand smoke because these are triggers for nasal irritation. It will also help to buy humidifiers and run them at home. Breathing air with a fair amount of moisture will help decongest the sinuses and aid in proper nasal drainage.

 

Read what is sinusitis and sphenoid sinusitis for related information