Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Healthy sinuses do not contain bacteria or other microorganisms. If too much mucus builds up in the sinuses, bacteria and other microorganisms grow more easily leading to inflammation. Sinusitis may be either acute or chronic. Vitamin C supplements may also be used to prevent sinusitis.
Vitamin C and Sinusitis
Vitamin C, a natural antioxidant may help prevent sinusitis infections. It helps microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses from causing infection in the body. Patients with sinusitis should increase consumption of foods rich in vitamin C. These include oranges, pineapples, kiwi fruits, mangoes, broccoli and green leafy vegetables.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
Patients with acute sinusitis experience symptoms that last up to four weeks while patients with chronic sinusitis experience symptoms that last longer than 3 months. Patients report symptoms such as pain or pressure in the face or head, cough, nasal congestion, yellowish-green nasal discharge, toothache, bad breath, postnasal drip, cough, sore throat, loss of smell, fever, fatigue and malaise.
Sinusitis Treatment
Sinusitis is treated by reducing inflammation and clearing the sinuses. Doctors prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infection and nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation of the nose and the sinuses. Patients should ensure that they finish the full dose of prescribed antibiotics so as avoid developing antibiotic-resistant infections. Antihistamines may also be prescribed to reduce allergies that cause sinusitis. Patients may also be advised to use over-the-counter decongestants to reduce nasal congestion.
Prevention of Sinusitis
Patients should drink plenty of fluids to increase moisture in the body so as to prevent congestion and mucus build up in the sinuses. Patients should also use a humidifier so as to increase moisture in the nose and sinuses. Patients who suffer from allergies should take antihistamines regularly so as to avoid sinusitis. During upper respiratory infections, such as a sore throat and the common cold, patients should take decongestants to prevent sinusitis.
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