If you’ve ever felt that your sinuses are “acting up” you’ve probably experienced sinusitis. Whether it’s a runny nose, stuffy nose or sneezing, sinusitis may be the cause. “Sinusitis” is the inflammation of the sinuses that results in an infection. Our sinuses are open air-filled cavities located in the forehead, between the eyes, and behind the eyes, the cheeks and the nose. 

There are 3 different types of sinusitis: 

• acute sinusitis
• sub-acute sinusitis
• chronic sinusitis

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The 3 types differ in length of time with chronic sinusitis being the longest (symptoms last for more than 3 months) and acute sinusitis being the shortest (symptoms last for up to 4 weeks). 

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Symptoms

These may include: 

• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Facial pain or pressure
• Headache from sinus pressure
• The feeling of mucus dripping down your throat (post-nasal drip)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Upper tooth/jaw pain from sinus pressure
• Bad breath
• Fever

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Causes

Extra mucus plays a big role in the development of sinusitis. The presence of extra mucus is often caused by allergies to things like dust or having a cold. When the extra mucus builds up in the sinus cavities, a bacterial or viral infection may occur, causing sinusitis. 

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Risk factors

While anyone can experience sinusitis there are those who are at a higher risk:

• Seasonal allergies, individuals may have a higher chance of experiencing sinusitis during the Sahara dust season
• Someone who has recently experienced a cold
• Structural problems within the sinuses
• Weak immune system or taking drugs that weaken the immune system
• Recent upper respiratory infection
• Dental infection
• Cystic fibrosis

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Treatment

Oftentimes sinusitis resolves itself, but when it does not extra care must be taken in order for sufferers to receive the relief they desperately crave.

Medication: 

• Anti-inflammatory nasal sprays
• Pain relievers like acetaminophen and NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like Panadol Allergy Sinus, Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Naproxen
• Antibiotics for sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection. Antibiotics should only be taken if prescribed by your doctor. Once prescribed do not stop taking your medication earlier than directed.

Self care:

• Use a warm compress over the nose and forehead may help relieve sinus pressure
• Use a decongestant or saline nasal spray
• Breath in steam from a bowl of hot water or shower

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Seeking help

You should seek help if you experience:

• Severe symptoms such as severe headache or facial pain
• Symptoms that get worse after improving
• Symptoms that have lasted longer than 10 days without improving
• Fever that does not improve in 3-4 days

Overall, it is recommended that you see your general practitioner (GP) for any symptoms that are severe or concerning.

N.B. For any severe symptoms, it is recommended that you consult an Ear, Nose and Throat or ENT Specialist.

References:

Canadian Society of Otolaryngology- Head & Neck Surgery: https://www.entcanada.org/education/general-public/public-information-sheets-2/nose/acute-sinusitis/

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/sinus-infection.html

Healthline - Sinusitis: https://www.healthline.com/health/sinusitis#treatment

Trinidad and Tobago Guardian: https://www.guardian.co.tt/article-6.2.429972.3332e51c68