More than 30 million people in the United States suffer from sinusitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sinus disease affects the nasal cavity, which is behind the eyes and nose, with inflammation, excessive mucus and pressure. Obstructive sinus disease is the result of a structural abnormality that causes chronic sinus infections. Several treatments can be used to cure obstructive sinus disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Definition
Sinus disease is another term for chronic sinusitis, according to the Mayo Clinic. It refers to the inflammation of the sinus cavity commonly caused by allergies, the common cold and physical obstruction. Obstructive sinus disease is chronic sinusitis caused by a nasal obstruction.
Causes
According to the American Rhinologic Society, nasal polyps are growths throughout the sinus cavity that cause obstruction that restricts breathing and traps mucus, leading to recurrent infections. A deviated septum is another type of nasal obstruction that leads to obstructive sinus disease. A deviated septum is a crooked nasal wall from development or a facial injury, according to the Mayo Clinic. A deviated septum can block air from entering the nostrils and mucus leaving them. Facial trauma can also cause obstruction in the sinus cavity.
Symptoms
According to MedlinePlus.com, a medical information resource established by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the common symptoms of obstructive sinus disease are nasal discharge, sinus pressure pain, congestion, sneezing, fatigue, bad breath and a cough caused by postnasal drip. Chronic sinusitis can lead to a fever and other complications, such as an ear infection or meningitis. The Mayo Clinic suggests seeing a doctor if an individual develops a fever higher than 100-1/2 degrees.
Treatments
Sinus surgery is common for nasal polyps, according to the American Rhinologic Society. The first treatment administered is the use of nasal steroid sprays that can shrink the size of the polyp. A deviated septum can only be corrected with surgery. The surgeon breaks the center nasal bone and repositions it so it is no longer crooked. Facial trauma can heal on its own but will require surgery if the bones do not settle correctly.
Home Care
A person with obstructive sinus disease can treat the symptoms at home, according to MedlinePlus. Applying a warm cloth over the face a few times a day will help to moisten and sooth the irritated sinuses. The more a person drinks, the thinner mucus secretions will be, allowing mucus to drain more effectively. Steam is used to moisten the sinuses by either running a hot shower or using a warm-mist humidifier.
