Sinusitis refers to an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the paranasal sinuses. It often follows the common cold, influenza and other general infections. Germs which are usually eliminated from the body sometimes find their way into these sinuses or chambers on either side of the nasal passage, leading to sinus trouble.
The sinuses consist of cavities or chambers contained in the bones situated in the head and face region. The frontal, maxillary, ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses are the paranasal sinuses which communicate with the nose. The frontal sinuses lie on the frontal bone directly above the eyes.
The maxillary sinuses are located one on each side of the nose under the cheekbone. The ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses are situated behind the nose or either side of it. These air sinuses lighten the weight of the skull and give reasonance to the voice.
Symptoms
The symptoms of sinusitis are excessive or constant sneezing, a running nose , blockage of one or both nostrils, headaches and pressure around the head, eyes and face. Sinus headaches are usually felt in the forehead and in the face just below the eyes.
The patient may suffer from a low grade fever, lack of appetite, loss of sense of appetite and toothache. He feels miserable because of difficulty in breathing. The voice is also affected because of the blocked nose.
Causes
Sinusitis results from the congestion of the sinus passages due to catarrh. It is caused by oversecretion of mucus in the membranes lining the nose, throat and head. This oversecretion is due to irritation caused by toxins in the blood.
A faulty diet is, thus, the real cause of sinus trouble. When a person consumes certain types of food or drinks regularly, these, in due course, have a conditioning effect on the entire system. As a result, some persons become more sensitive to certain allergens, whose reaction ultimately turns into sinusitis.
The modern medical system regards sinus trouble as the result of allergy. After identifying the allergen, it prescribes medicines and injections to build up resistance in patients. This is a lengthy treatment which may provide momentary relief but does not provide a lasting cure.
Patients are advised to avoid the use of or contact with well-known allergens such as certain spices, flowers, perfumes, smoke, certain plants, animals and so on. Often, it is very difficult to determine what the individual is allergic to.