Sinus problems

When we complain of a stuffy nose, it may mean that our sinuses are congested. A cold usually lasts about 7 to 14 days and goes away without treatment. Sinusitis can last from 3 weeks to 8 weeks and recur several times a year. The symptoms do not usually go away without treatment.

The sinuses are air spaces behind the facial bones. These cavities are lined with mucous membranes. Sinusitis occurs when these membranes swell or become infected. The passageways among the sinuses and nose are very narrow. Swelling of the lining produces too much mucus. Excess mucus fills up the sinuses and may block the passageways. This leads to pressure changes that can be painful inside the sinuses. The trapped mucus may also become infected. Chronic sinusitis may occur if you have an allergic condition or with asthma. The airborne allergens trigger the inflammation.

Sinusitis may follow:

• a common cold, flu, or other infection
• allergies
• conditions that hinder drainage, such as polyps or injuries
• a tooth infection spreading to the sinuses
• swimming in contaminated water
• pressure changes in airplanes at high altitudes
• violent sneezing or nose blowing
• smoking or breathing other people's smoke or
• snorting drugs such as cocaine or inhalants

Sinusitis symptoms can include any of the following:

• a feeling of fullness or pressure in the head
• a headache that is most painful when waking or when the head is bent forward
• tenderness above, behind, or below the eyes
• aching in upper jaw and teeth
• decreased sense of smell
• runny nose or nasal congestion
• drainage in the back of the throat (post nasal drainage)
• cough, especially at night
• fever and
• generally do not feel well

Signs of a bacterial infection are bad breath, a yellow or green discharge, and, possibly, high fever. The location of pain depends on which sinuses are stuffed up. Pain may be around the cheeks and upper teeth, over the eyes, or over the eyebrows.

Some steps to prevent sinus attacks include:

• quit smoking
• drink plenty of fluids
• keep air moist with humidifiers and
• avoid the cause of the sinus attack

If you have sinusitis, decongestants may help. Make sure to read the label directions and precautions before you start using a decongestant. Get plenty of rest and drink a lot of water. Elevate your head in bed, but only slightly. Apply warm compresses over painful areas. See your healthcare provider if the pain lasts for several days or there are any signs of bacterial infection, such as fever or foul smelling nasal discharge. You may be prescribed antibiotics or other medicines. If the sinus area above or below the eyes is swollen or bulging, see your provider immediately.

Sinus problems can last a few days, a few weeks, or months. If one does not treat a short-term problem, it can become a long-term problem. Surgery is a last resort in some cases of recurrent sinus infections.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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