 What are sinuses?
The nasal sinuses are hollow cavities within the cheek bones around the eyes and behind
the nose. The sinus cavities warm, moisten, and filter the air that we breathe; they also
take the weight off the skull and insulate it. There are four pairs of sinuses: the frontal
sinuses, located in the forehead; the maxillary sinuses, located behind the cheek bones;
the ethmoid sinuses, located between the eyes; and the sphenoid sinuses, located behind the
eyes. Healthy sinuses contain no bacteria and open easily, allowing mucus to drain and air
to circulate.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the membrane lining of one or more of the sinus cavities.
When sinuses become blocked and cannot drain properly, bacteria multiply and cause
infection.
What is acute sinusitis?
Acute sinusitis, usually caused by a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection (like a
common cold), usually clears up in a matter of days or weeks.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
Symptoms of sinusitis may include facial pain or pressure, nasal obstruction, nasal
discharge, and diminished sense of smell. Sinusitis could also cause fever, bad breath,
fatigue, dental pain, and cough.
What is recurrent sinusitis?
Recurrent sinusitis refers to acute sinusitis that returns three of four times a
year.
What is chronic sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis lasts eight weeks or longer, and it's usually caused by a chronic
inflammatory disorder similar to bronchial asthma.
How common is sinusitis?
Approximately 37 million Americans (1 in 7) suffer from sinusitis at least once a
year.
What is the difference between sinusitis and rhinitis?
Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the mucus membranes of the nose, whereas sinusitis
refers to inflammation in the sinuses. Allergic rhinitis is inflammation in the nose that
is caused by allergens, and it may be seasonal or perennial (year-round). Non-allergic rhinitis may
be caused by structural problems with the nose, changes in hormones, or overuse of nasal sprays. Infectious
rhinitis is caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, and this accounts for most cases. Poorly controlled
rhinitis can lead to sinusitis.
What is rhinosinusitis?
When nasal inflammation accompanies sinusitis (which is the case most of the time), it
is referred to as rhinosinusitis.
Is there a connection between allergies and sinusitis?
Yes. "Sinusitis is very common in the winter and can last for months or years if
inadequately treated," says Brian A. Smart, MD. "It is more likely that people with
other allergic diseases such as allergies or asthma will develop sinusitis."
The incidence of sinusitis in asthma patients ranges from 40% - 75%.
"Mold is associated with many chronic sinusitis symptoms," points out Dr. Clive Brown of the CDC, referring
to a 1999 Mayo Clinic study which found that allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) was diagnosed in 93% of cases of
chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Learn how to combat mold allergies with our
Mold & Mildew Solution Guide.
What is an otolaryngologist?
Otolaryngologists are medical doctors who specialize in treating conditions affecting
the ear, nose, and throat; they’re also known as ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physicians.
Sometimes a structural problem can lead to recurrent sinusitis, and in this case, an
otolaryngologist may need to perform surgery.
How is sinusitis treated?
 Your allergist or physician may prescribe antibiotics, decongestants, and/or
antihistamines to treat sinusitis. Immunotherapy ("allergy shots") may also help if your
sinusitis is due to allergies.
 Several non-drug treatments also work well for sinusitis. Breathing in hot, moist air
restores moisture and soothes irritated sinuses. The Vicks
Personal Steam Inhaler is the best-selling vaporizer in the world. Saline
nasal washes, saline mists, and neti
pots flush out allergens and provide moisture for sinus relief. The Grossan Hydro Pulse
Nasal/Sinus Irrigation System uses pulses of water to clean out the sinuses. Breathe Right
Nasal Strips gently open nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing. Clear-Ease Natural
Fruit Enzyme Lozenges help reduce sinus swelling and discomfort naturally. For more information about non-drug sinus
relief, see all sinus relief products.
 Environmental control measures also help to alleviate sinus problems. During the winter,
a humidifier will add soothing moisture to dry, irritating air. If you
have a mold problem, keep the relative humidity below 50% with a
dehumidifier. Rid your
air of allergens, chemicals, and other impurities with an air purifier, and protect your bed from
allergenic organisms like dust mites and mold with allergy relief bedding.
More Helpful Information on Treating Sinus Problems
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