What is Sinusitis?

Ever had colds or allergies that wouldn't go away?

What Is Sinusitus?
Do you suffer from colds and allergy attacks that just won’t go away? It is possible that this could be a medical condition known as Sinusitis. Experts estimate that 37 million people are afflicted with sinusitis each year, making it one of the most common health conditions in America.

This figure is only an estimation because the symptoms of bacterial sinusitis often mimic those of colds or allergies, and many sufferers never see a doctor for proper diagnosis or treatment.

Acute Sinusitis

Acute bacterial sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavities caused by bacteria. It usually begins with a cold, an allergy attack, or an irritation by environmental pollutants. The difference between colds or allergies and bacterial sinusitis is that the latter requires a physician's diagnosis and treatment with an antibiotic to cure the infection and prevent future complications.

Normally, mucus collecting in the sinuses drains into the nasal passages. When you have a cold or allergy attack, your sinuses become inflamed and are unable to drain. This can lead to congestion and infection. Diagnosis of acute sinusitis is usually based on a physical examination and a discussion of your symptoms. Your doctor also may use x-rays of your sinuses or obtain a sample of your nasal discharge to test for bacteria.

Chronic Sinusitis

If have been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis, intensive antibiotic therapy may be prescribed for you. Surgery is also sometimes necessary to remove physical obstructions that may contribute to sinusitis.

Acute vs. Chronic

If your sinus infections are frequent or last more than three months, it could be chronic sinusitis. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis may be less severe than those of acute; however, untreated chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses and facial bone structure that may require surgery to repair.

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