Fungal sinus infections, or sinusitis, affects the air-filled cavities in the skull that are present behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks and eyes. The condition is characterized by headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, bad breath, fatigue and fever and can be acute or chronic. According to MayoClinic.com, fungi are associated with nearly 96 percent of the chronic sinusitis cases. In individuals with reduced immunity, fungal sinusitis may spread to other tissues of the body. The aim of the treatment is to improve the sinus drainage and cure the infection.
Home Remedies
The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library recommends simple home remedies such as steam inhalation, covering the effected sinuses with hot, wet towels and drinking hot beverages to relieve the tightened and constricted blood vessels and to promote drainage. Efficient drainage of the sinuses can help cure the infection more quickly. A doctor should be consulted, however, so appropriate medication can be prescribed.
Decongestants
Decongestants such as phenylphrine can provide relief from the stuffy feeling and headache that are associated with fungal sinus infections. These drugs are available in tablet and spray form and can be purchased at the local pharmacy without a prescription. Decongestants are usually taken every four hours as required. Common side effects, as per MedlinePlus, include dizziness, sleeplessness and nervousness. A doctor should be consulted for symptoms that worsen or persist.
Corticosteroid Sprays
Nasal steroid sprays such as fluticosone, beclamethasone and triamcinolone do not cure the fungal sinus infection but help relieve the symptoms of nasal obstruction and may prescribed for long-term use. Although, these sprays are generally safe to use, side effects such as burning, dryness, irritation and itching inside your nose and throat, sneezing, headaches, nosebleeds, runny nose or an upset stomach may occur. MayoClinic.com recommends talking to a physician if the side effects don't improve or go away with time.
Pain Relievers
Drugs such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can provide relief to fungal sinusitis patients from headache and body pains. These drugs also help to bring down the fever that may accompany these infections. These drugs are available in the pharmacy without a prescription and can be used as required. It is important to follow the instructions on the package. Side effects are rare but over dose can lead to nausea, vomiting and upset stomach.
Antifungals
Antifungal drugs can be used to cure the sinus fungal infections and can be taken orally or applied at the site of infections. A study published in the May-June 2009 edition of the the "American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy" states that oral itraconazole may help patients with chronic or recurrent fungal sinus infections. Amphoterecin B may be given intravenously to treat invasive fungal sinus infections. Toxicity, side effects and drug interactions are common with the use of antifungals and hence, the patient should be closely monitored.
Surgery
Surgery is a common treatment option for chronic and severe cases of fungal sinusitis. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library recommends surgery to remove the fungal debris from the affected sinus. Minimally invasive endoscopic surgery is effective in most cases. The infection, however, may relapse if the patient is exposed to even small amounts of fungal spores that may be present in the air. Hence, long term treatment with steroids or antifungals may be required post-surgery.
References
- ScienceDaily: Mayo Clinic Study Implicates Fungus As Cause Of Chronic Sinusitis
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Sinisitis
- MedlinePlus: Sinisitis
- MayoClinic.com: Can Nasal Steroid Sprays Be Used Long Term?
- "American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy"; The use of itraconazole in recalcitrant fungal sinusitis.; Kristin Seiberling and Peter J. Wolmard; May-June 2009
