Sinus Infection

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Other names for Sinus Infection

Inflamed sinus cavities
Rhinosinusitis
Sinusitis

Synopsis of Sinus Infection

A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is the inflammation or swelling of the sinus linings, typically caused by a viral, bacterial, or sometimes fungal infection. The sinuses are air-filled cavities in the skull that help regulate airflow and filter inhaled air. When inflamed, they can become blocked with fluid and mucus, creating a breeding ground for pathogens. Symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, thick nasal discharge, headache, and reduced sense of smell. Sinus infections can be acute (lasting less than 4 weeks), subacute, or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks), with the latter often linked to allergies, nasal polyps, or structural blockages.

Types:

  • Acute sinusitis: Sudden onset, usually following a cold or respiratory virus

  • Chronic sinusitis: Long-term inflammation often without infection

  • Subacute sinusitis: Lasts 4–12 weeks, often following unresolved acute infection

  • Recurrent sinusitis: Multiple acute episodes per year

  • Fungal sinusitis: Rare, usually occurs in immunocompromised individuals

Common Causes:

  • Viral respiratory infections (cold, flu)

  • Allergies (hay fever, dust, mold)

  • Nasal polyps or deviated septum

  • Bacterial infection following congestion

  • Swimming or dental infections spreading to sinuses

  • Air pollutants and irritants

Severity Causes:

  • Delayed or insufficient drainage of mucus

  • Immunosuppression or chronic inflammation

  • Repeated exposure to allergens or irritants

  • Poor indoor air quality or mold exposure

  • Untreated dental infections near the sinus area

When to See a Doctor:

  • Symptoms lasting more than 10 days or worsening after initial improvement

  • High fever, swelling around the eyes, or facial pain

  • Recurrent sinus infections (more than 4/year)

  • Thick yellow or green nasal discharge

  • Persistent headache or reduced sense of smell

Natural remedies for Sinus Infection

Saline rinses: Help flush out mucus, allergens, and infectious material. Use a neti pot or saline spray daily to relieve congestion and improve drainage.

Steam inhalation: Loosens mucus and opens nasal passages. Add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for added decongestant effect.

Bromelain: An enzyme from pineapple that reduces sinus swelling and improves mucus drainage. Especially helpful in post-viral or inflamed sinuses.

Quercetin: A natural flavonoid that stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine release in allergy-triggered sinus inflammation.

Vitamin C: Supports immune defense and reduces oxidative stress in inflamed tissues. May shorten the duration of viral infections.

Probiotics: Improve immune response and reduce inflammation, particularly helpful when recurrent infections or antibiotics disrupt microbial balance.

Magnesium: Helps relax vascular and mucosal tissue, easing sinus pressure and reducing associated headaches.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids thins mucus, helping it drain more easily from congested sinuses.

Additional Help

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