Sinus Cavities
Sinus cavities are air-filled spaces located within the skull and around the nasal passages. Lined with mucous membranes, these cavities connect to the nasal passages via small openings that facilitate the drainage of mucus. When the sinuses become inflamed, it leads to congestion and mucus buildup, resulting in a range of painful and uncomfortable symptoms. Sinusitis is a common ailment affecting many individuals, particularly those living in cold, elevated, or humid environments, as well as those prone to frequent colds and respiratory infections. Alongside congestion, inflammation may also cause swelling of the sinus tissues, blockage, and accumulation of mucus, viruses, and bacteria.
Types of Sinusitis
- Acute Sinusitis: This condition presents symptoms similar to those of a cold, such as nasal congestion and discharge, accompanied by significant sinus pressure. Typically, these symptoms resolve within two weeks.
- Chronic Sinusitis: Here, symptoms are more severe and persist for over eight weeks.
- Recurrent Sinusitis: This refers to episodes of sinusitis occurring more than four times in a single year.
Causes of Sinusitis
Acute Sinusitis Causes
Acute sinusitis (English: Acute Sinusitis) is characterized by a short-term inflammation affecting the membranes lining the nose and surrounding sinuses, which can impede mucus drainage. Understanding the causes of this condition involves discussing both primary factors and risk factors, which includes the following:
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Allergies affecting the nasal area, such as hay fever
- Nasal polyps or other tumors
- Deviated nasal septum
- Adenoid infections
- Cystic fibrosis
- Dental infections
Additionally, several factors can increase the risk of developing acute sinusitis, including:
- Nasal allergies
- Structural abnormalities of the nasal passages
- Smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants
- Inflamed or enlarged adenoids
- Prolonged exposure in daycare or nursing facilities
- Activities causing pressure changes, such as flying or scuba diving
- Weakened immune system
Chronic Sinusitis Causes
Chronic sinusitis (English: Chronic Sinusitis) is characterized by prolonged pain, pressure, and swelling in the sinuses, with symptoms lasting over three months. The development of chronic sinusitis can be attributed to several primary causes, including:
- Obstruction of the sinuses, which may result from facial injuries, nasal polyps, tumors, chronic infections, or a deviated septum
- Uncontrolled infections resistant to antibiotics, such as fungal infections
- Presence of biofilm on the teeth
- Exposure to irritants and allergens
- Immune system disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or HIV
The likelihood of developing chronic sinusitis increases in various conditions, notably:
- Deformities of the nasal passages
- Asthma
- Aspirin sensitivity
- Immune system disorders
- Hay fever
- Regular exposure to environmental pollutants
Symptoms of Sinusitis
- Nasal congestion and difficulty breathing
- Facial pain
- Persistent headache
- Intense pressure in the ears
- General fatigue
- Elevated body temperature
- Cough
- Tooth pain, particularly in the upper jaw
- Bad breath
- Facial swelling
- Thick, yellow-green nasal discharge
- Temporary loss of smell and difficulty distinguishing odors
- Watery eyes
Video on the Causes of Sinusitis
For more important information regarding sinusitis and its causes, please watch the video.