People who suffer from sinusitis rarely consult doctors, and this puzzles ENT specialists. This is because they think that it’s nothing close to life-threatening and that it will eventually go away. In three to four weeks, acute sinusitis goes away; however, it may lead to chronic sinusitis which can pester a person for 12 weeks.
Sinusitis is the swelling of the paranasal sinuses. Inflammation occurs when mucus does not drain. Sinusitis is caused by fungal infections and cold allergies. The common causes, however, are pollutants, dust, and mold.
Pain or pressure on the facial area, near the nose or eyes, is the most common symptom of acute or chronic sinusitis. Aside from headache, they also have nasal discharge and sneeze frequently. Patients may also feel tired, have cough and blurred vision, and worse, be in a coma due to brain infection.
Sinus problems can be prevented. Naturally, having a healthy lifestyle is number one on the list. This involves resting well and eating healthy. Eat food which are rich in retinol (Vitamin A) and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). Vitamin C or ascorbic acid boosts the immune system. Meanwhile, Vitamin A or retinol is responsible for thinning the mucus, allowing the sinus to drain it easily.
Some food are also proven to be effective in relieving sinusitis. Onion is said to open blocked sinuses, while garlic has natural anti-bacterial properties which combat the infection. Also, drinking plenty of water and juices are greatly encouraged. Water helps mucus flow easily and at the same time, flushes out toxins in your body.
Steam inhalation is another home remedy a lot of people try. Effectively decongest the clogged cavities by inhaling steam for ten minutes. Adding eucalyptus oil can also be helfpul. There are medications available over the counter which ease the pain and lessens the swelling like aspirins and ibuprofen.
A healthy lifestyle is your best shield against sinusitis. The home remedies give fast but temporary solutions to sinusitis. However, these remedies are not enough to combat chronic sinusitis. Therefore, it would be wise to pay the ENT doctor a visit for him to assess your case. Nowadays, endoscopic sinus surgery is done by ENT surgeons to relieve patients of the pain associated with this condition.
If you are having sinus problems, it’s best to visit an ENT specialist immediately. Don’t wait for it to get worse neither should you endure the pain or discomfort.
Sinus surgery may ease the pain you are feeling due to sinus problems. Know your options. Visit an ENT specialist today!