Sinus Infection (Sinusitis): Symptoms, Treatment & Causes

Causes of Sinusitis

Sinusitis comes from various factors but always results from fluid becoming trapped in the sinuses, allowing germs to grow.

Some Common Causes of Sinusitis include:

• Viral infection
• Bacterial infection
• Fungal infection
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Air pollutants - such as chemicals and other irritants
• Mould

Risk Factors of Sinusitis

You are more likely to suffer from sinusitis if you have any of the risk factors listed below. While there are many unavoidable risk factors, it’s worth noting these major risk factors to help ascertain if you might have sinusitis:

• Respiratory tract infections, such as a cold
• Nasal polyps
• Seasonal allergies
• Sensitivity to dust, pollen, and animal hair, for example
• Weakened immune system
• Suffering with a deviated septum

Complications of Sinusitis

For most people, sinusitis will not present complications. But acute bacterial sinusitis can result in complications that in some cases are life-threatening. Sinus walls are thin, and share blood vessels and lymph drainage pathways with the eyes and parts of the central nervous system.

Complications of Sinus Infection include:

• Eye infections
• Sinus cavity blood clots (thrombosis)
• Meningitis
• Brain abscess
• Bone infection

Note that all of these are rare. If you feel you are developing any symptoms that suggest a potential complication of sinusitis, seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment of Sinusitis

Treatment is determined by how long sinusitis lasts. Most sinusitis is viral and benefits from symptomatic relief, as opposed to treatment with antibiotics. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial sinus infections – which account for no more than one in 50 cases of sinusitis.

Treatment of Acute & Subacute Sinusitis

A doctor may prescribe treatment when sinusitis symptoms carry on or if the patient has severe symptoms. Antibiotics are the best treatment in cases of bacterial infection. You should contact your doctor again if symptoms persist after a course of antibiotics has finished.

Treatment of Chronic Sinusitis

Antibiotics are not usually appropriate for chronic sinusitis as it is most often not the result of bacterial infection. Relief can come if people identify triggers such as allergens, pollen or dust mites. A doctor may decide that a prescription of corticosteroid sprays or tablets is required.

Surgery for Sinusitis

Surgery is only considered by a doctor if other sinusitis treatments fail – and even then, it may not end sinusitis for the patient. Post-surgery a sufferer may still be subject to outbreaks of sinusitis and need to carry on with further treatments. In children, surgery is considered a last resort for sinusitis.

Home Remedies for Sinusitis

Around 70 per cent of acute sinusitis cases are resolved without prescription drugs. Sinusitis symptoms can be relieved in a number of ways – including differing home remedies and over-the-counter medications:

• Nasal irrigation: a saltwater solution can help clear the nasal passages
• Rest: taking time to relax can alleviate symptoms in some cases
• Warm compresses: swelling and associated pain and discomfort can be alleviated with the gentle application of a compress.
• Steam inhalation: this can relieve congestion when you inhale while leaning over a bowl filled with hot water. Adding menthol drops or crystals can help.
• Decongestant tablets and sprays: sometimes help the sinuses to drain
• OTC nasal corticosteroids: a nasal spray can cut down inflammation.