It's estimated that between 10 and 15 million Americans develop symptoms of a sinus infection, according to the Merck Manuals. Symptoms of sinusitis include severe nasal blockage, or obstruction, and nasal drainage. While the symptoms are usually little more than discomfort for the sufferer, they could lead to more complicated conditions such as a chronic cough, sinus headaches and the risk of the infection spreading. A doctor will evaluate blocked sinuses and drainage and determine the cause and best treatment.
Causes
Blocked sinuses accompanied by drainage are caused by a sinus infection, allergies, the common cold or physical nasal complications. A sinus infection is a bacterial or viral infection in the sinus cavity that causes the sinuses to swell from inflammation. Allergies commonly cause the sinus cavity to become irritated, reacting by swelling. A cold virus results in severe congestion, leading to blocked sinuses. Physical nasal complications could include a facial injury, deviated septum or nasal pimples.
Effects
According to the University of Maryland's Medical Center, swollen or blocked sinuses lead to excess drainage. The swollen or blocked cavity causes mucus to accumulate within the cavity, searching for a place to exit the body. If the nostrils are completely obstructed, the only way out is down the back of the throat. A constant dripping of mucus down the throat is called post-nasal drip, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology.
Symptoms
Symptoms of sinus blockage with drainage are nasal congestion, sinus pressure, bad breath, sore throat, sneezing, reduced sense of smell and taste, and coughing. The excessive pressure placed on the head can cause sinus headaches in the forehead, the upper teeth and back of the eyes, according to the MayoClinic.com. The blockage will also inhibit the person's ability to smell and taste normally. Bad breath, a sore throat and coughing are results of post-nasal drip.
Treatment
Natural approaches include using heat and saline solutions to soothe and cleanse the sinuses, according to the Merck Manuals. Take a towel and wet it with hot water from the tap. Squeeze excess water from the towel and place it directly over the eyes and nose until the towel is no longer warm. Drink hot teas to help dilate the sinus cavity and encourage drainage and decongestion. Use over-the-counter drugs such as decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers to treat blocked sinuses with drainage, according to the MayoClinic.com. Sinus surgery may be required with nasal deformities such as a facial injury or deviated septum.
Prevention
If the sinus blockage and drainage is the result of allergies, identify and avoid allergens to prevent sinus congestion. Sinus infections may be prevented by using nasal irrigation on a daily basis, according to the MayoClinic.com. Washing the hands, sleeping well and eating a balanced diet can help prevent the spread of the common cold.
