• Published on: Nov 12, 2021
  • 4 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Sinus: Causes And Cure

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

Sinus: causes and cure.

A sinus infection is an infection of the sinuses caused by a virus, bacteria, or rare fungi. Technically, sinusitis is an inflammation of the delicate membranes that line the sinuses, which may be caused by an allergy, a virus, bacteria, or rare fungi.

Sinusitis is a medical condition in which the sinuses become inflamed and filled with mucous, causing headache, nasal blockage, feverishness, and toothache. This can be due to allergies or an infection. Nosebleeds are a common symptom of a clogged or infected nose.

A nasal examination by a doctor can help determine if this is the problem causing your symptoms. And it's easy to cure-all you need is over-the-counter decongestants such as Sudafed or allergy medicines such as Claritin or Allegra to relieve allergies and antibiotics for infections.  Sinuses produce mucus in order to moisten and clean the air we breathe. The mucus is meant to remove any harmful bacteria in the air we inhale, and also functions as a temperature regulator for the inhaled air.

If you do nothing else, you should always use an over-the-counter decongestant that contains pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (for example, Sudafed). This drug helps reduce inflammation by drying up some of your fluid production. Be careful when using these drugs though—they're not meant for long-term use and can make it difficult for a doctor to accurately diagnose a medical condition if they don't work properly because they may mask symptoms of other conditions. Causes can include allergies, sinus infections, asthma, smoking.

A large number of people with chronic inflammation of the airways are allergic to something within their environment. Information about different types of allergies is available online. Along with type-specific treatments for the allergies themselves, many people find it helpful to avoid whatever they are allergic to in order to help alleviate chronic sinus problems.

The most common physical cause of chronic inflammation involving the nose and breathing passages is a viral infection called "rhinitis." Rhinitis can last up to two weeks or more after being exposed to an allergen that triggered it - the allergen produced interferes with your immune system's function but ultimately makes your immune system less. The primary causes of sinusitis and its complications are inflammation (infection, allergies) and polyps. Nasal intubation has been performed for short-term relief from chronic sinusitis, with success rates reported to be as high as 90%. In patients fitted with a device that blocks the Eustachian tube using a Teflon blockage or nasal balloon catheter, the chance of needing an operation was greatly reduced during a period of about three years. Inserting tubes through the nose have been used successfully in recalcitrant cases to identify and drain maxillary or ethmoid sinuses for temporary relief which is not usually permanent before surgery becomes necessary.

On the other hand, if you had a particularly bad year, it's not surprising that your immune system is more likely to lose its tolerance for bacteria. This might also change how your sinuses respond. Sometimes allergens or irritants can damage sinus tissue and keep the flow of mucus impeded which causes your nose to feel stuffy. The best way to fix this issue is for you to work on improving what you eat so that food allergies don't happen as frequently. Start by taking an allergen avoidant medicine like Allegra or Benadryl regularly when you're around known allergens - supplements often won't do it because they only temporarily mask symptoms with no impact on root causes.

Sinus is a common name for the cavities around the nose - there's one on each side of your nose, and they're filled with mucous. Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the sinus passages, causing pressure and pain in your head, often near one or both eyes. Treatments include antibiotics if bacterial infections are to blame; usually, these can be self-administered by way of nasal spray. If you have a significant amount of fluid draining from your sinuses, this can lead to a buildup behind your eye sockets which could result in vision problems. The only treatment here would be surgery. Obviously, it would be best to avoid any infection or inflammation which might make these treatments necessary!

Sinusitis is a pretty broad term that encompasses a large array of dysfunctional conditions. The root cause may be different for each person, but the common thread is pain brought on by sinus pressure and mucous build-up. Generalized triggers of sinuses from people with allergies, colds, or hay fever include cigarette smoke, fragrances, house dust mites, or pet dander. In addition to the triggers mentioned above, there are also certain substances such as pollen and different allergens that can considerably intensify an existing response to a trigger substance which is known as aggravation reactions.

There are many causes and cures of congestion and sinusitis, however, they all involve fighting the inflammation that causes pain. There are most often two specific causes of sinusitis: your nasal passages clog due to polyps, infections, or asthma - these occur in 20% of cases; and your Eustachian tube swells with fluid or mucous which blocks it - occurring in 60% of cases. In many cases, allergies or a sinus infection trigger congestion that leads to swollen turbinates and poor air quality.

In other words, one of the most common causes is seasonal allergies which block cells from producing enough mucous. And as the cells become less productive at releasing mucous, they too become congested and leading to inflammation of the sinuses. Allergies can also cause swelling of turbinates (the tissues inside your nose) and loss of smell, all of which make it hard for we to breathe out through our nasal passages. We recommend using a saline spray like Afrin Nasal Spray

There are many causes of sinus problems. The most common is when the nasal passages become blocked and this can happen when you have a cold or an allergy. Sinusitis, or bacterial or virus-caused sinus inflammation, is usually quickly treated with antibiotics like amoxicillin (if it's bacterial) and cleared up in less than two weeks.

The most common symptom of a cold is the production of nasal discharge which will also accumulate in your throat if you swallow it while coughing or talking. Colds may last anywhere from 7 to 14 days and usually go away without treatment (although certain medications such as decongestants and antihistamines can help.)

The nasal airways are lined with thin layers of glossy tissue called epithelia. In response to inhaled irritants coming from the nose and sinuses, the tissue produces white blood cells called macrophages and assorted histamine molecules. The histamine signals nerves in the area, causing mucosal swelling and inflammation and sending messages to other cells which fight infection.

The most common causes of sinus problems are respiratory allergies ( pollen, dust), food sensitivities (e.g., dairy, gluten), systemic levels of inflammation which can affect the lining of the nose and whose associated symptoms may include swelling around your eyes.

Most people have had sinus problems after being up too long following a late-night or staying in warm rooms with poor air quality- hence why sinus medications are often headache relievers as well.  Unfortunately, there is no cure for mucous production but some physicians recommend surgical procedures that remove excess bony bridges from the upper nasal passages to combat decaying tissue which creates large fluid pockets within them that can become infected by bacteria more easily than will other parts of your body.

The cure is to get proper treatment and take medications as prescribed by your doctor. Some potential reasons for chronic sinus problems could be allergies, congestion, and colds, which can all lead to sinus pain and pressure. If these issues are contributing to your problem, talk with your doctor about treatment options. There are a variety of treatments available from doctors who specialize in treating the nose and throat including nasal corticosteroids or decongestants as well as oral antibiotics if the bacterial infection is suspected. There are numerous causes of Sinusitis, the most common being Viral or Bacterial Upper Respiratory Infections or Allergies.

Read Blog
10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

Cancer is a growing concern in India, with cases rising due to lifestyle changes, genetic factors, and environmental triggers. Early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, many people tend to overlook early signs of cancer, mistaking them for minor health issues. In this article, we will discuss 10 early signs of cancer that most Indians ignore, how to detect them early, and essential cancer prevention tips.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without any changes in diet or exercise, it could be a warning sign of cancer. Cancers of the stomach, pancreas, esophagus, and lungs can cause sudden weight loss. If you experience unexplained weight loss of more than 5 kg, consult a doctor immediately.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired despite getting enough rest may indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. Leukemia, colon, and stomach cancers are often linked to extreme fatigue. If fatigue persists without an identifiable reason, it is advisable to get a medical evaluation.

3. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Frequent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool may signal colorectal cancer, while changes in urination patterns may indicate bladder or prostate cancer. If you notice prolonged changes in your bowel or bladder habits, seek medical attention.

4. Non-Healing Sores

A sore that does not heal within a few weeks could be a sign of oral cancer or skin cancer. Smokers and tobacco users should be especially vigilant about mouth ulcers, as they are at higher risk of developing signs of oral cancer.

5. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness

A cough lasting more than three weeks, especially if accompanied by blood, could be a symptom of lung cancer. Hoarseness that persists might be linked to throat or thyroid cancer. How to detect cancer early in such cases involves consulting a specialist if respiratory symptoms do not improve.

6. Lumps or Thickening of Tissue

The presence of lumps in the breast, testicles, or other parts of the body should not be ignored. Common cancer types in India, such as breast and testicular cancer, often present as painless lumps in their early stages. Early medical evaluation can prevent progression.

7. Difficulty Swallowing

Persistent difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, could be an early symptom of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer. If swallowing problems continue despite dietary adjustments, a medical examination is necessary.

8. Unexplained Bleeding

Unusual bleeding, such as blood in urine, stool, or coughing up blood, is a serious warning sign of cancer. Cervical and endometrial cancers may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. It is crucial to get tested if such symptoms occur.

9. Skin Changes

Skin abnormalities, such as dark patches, changes in moles, or persistent itching, can be indicators of skin cancer. If a mole grows, changes color, or starts bleeding, it is important to consult a dermatologist immediately.

10. Persistent Pain

Pain that does not go away, especially in the bones or back, can sometimes be an early sign of cancer. While pain alone is not definitive, unexplained or long-lasting pain should be evaluated by a medical professional.

How to Detect Cancer Early

Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Here are some tips to catch cancer in its initial stages:

  • Regular Health Check-ups: Routine screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies, help in detecting cancer before symptoms appear.

  • Self-Examinations: Checking for lumps, unusual moles, or changes in bodily functions can help identify potential issues early.

  • Knowing Family History: If there is a family history of cancer, it is advisable to go for genetic counseling and regular screenings.

  • Seeking Medical Attention Promptly: Do not ignore persistent symptoms. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

Cancer Prevention Tips

While cancer cannot always be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some essential cancer prevention tips:

  • Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco consumption is one of the leading causes of signs of oral cancer and lung cancer in India. Avoiding tobacco can drastically reduce your risk.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health and lowers cancer risk.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of several cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer. Regular exercise is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to liver, breast, and digestive tract cancers. Limiting alcohol can help reduce cancer risk.

  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Skin cancer can be prevented by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

  • Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations against Hepatitis B and HPV can prevent liver and cervical cancer, respectively.

  • Avoid Exposure to Carcinogens: Limit exposure to harmful chemicals, such as asbestos and radiation, that are known to cause cancer.

Conclusion

Awareness is the first step toward preventing and detecting cancer early. Ignoring early signs can lead to late-stage diagnosis and reduced treatment success. By understanding these early signs of cancer, following cancer prevention tips, and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can significantly lower their risk. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. How to detect cancer early is crucial knowledge that can save lives.

By staying informed and proactive, we can fight the rising incidence of common cancer types in India and ensure better health outcomes for all.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic