Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses (air-filled cavities) adjacent to the nose, commonly affecting the sinuses located between the eyes and in the cheekbones. Germs that cause sinusitis are contagious.

Symptoms:

• Nasal congestion with yellow-green discharge
• Post-nasal drip
• Headache
• Cough
• Eye pain
• Cheek pain
• Fever (occasional)

Causes:

• Inflammation, usually initiated by a cold or upper respiratory illness
• Irritation of the nasal passages from allergies or smoking

Prevention:

• Avoid close contact with anyone with upper-respiratory illnesses
• Wash hands regularly
• Don't share drinking glasses or eating utensils
• Replace your toothbrush after an illness and/or every two months

Self-care:

• Drink extra fluids, at least eight glasses a day
• Get plenty of rest
• Take Ibuprofen or Tylenol for pain and fever
• Take decongestant like Sudafed as directed
• If a sore throat is present, gargle every two to three hours with a solution of one teaspoon salt mixed with one cup warm water and suck on medicated lozenges every two hours
• Use a cool-mist humidifier in your room
• Don't smoke; avoid secondhand smoke
• Try using an over-the-counter saline nasal spray
• Have chicken soup - it helps clear mucus

Treatment:
Diagnostic tests may include blood work, culture, or x-rays of the sinuses. Antibotics may be prescribed to fight an infection. If they are prescribed, be sure to take the entire antibiotic you are given.