Chronic sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for more than 12 weeks despite treatment attempts, according to MayoClinic.com. Chronic sinusitis may be caused by bacteria or fungi. Normally, healthy sinuses contain no bacteria or other microorganisms. When the sinuses become blocked, too much mucus builds up, which promotes the growth of bacteria, viruses and fungi. Patients with chronic sinusitis should consume a well-balanced diet containing plenty of fruits.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Citrus fruits contain vitamin C, a natural antioxidant that prevents bacteria, viruses and fungi from causing infections in the body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that you need to consume daily because the body does not store the vitamin. Sources of vitamin C include oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, pineapples, broccoli and green leafy vegetables.
Other Foods
If you suffer from chronic sinusitis, you may also benefit from consuming bromelain and quercetin, according to UMMC. Bromelain is an enzyme derived from pineapples that helps reduce swelling and inflammation of the sinuses. Quercetin is a plant pigment responsible for the colors of fruits and vegetables that may prevent chronic sinusitis by inhibiting the production and release of histamines, which cause allergy symptoms. Allergy symptoms are a major cause of chronic sinusitis.
Symptoms and Treatment of Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis may cause you to experience experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, yellow or green nasal discharge, toothache, bad breath, sore throat, loss of smell, fatigue, malaise, cough that worsens at night, postnasal drip, and fever, as well as pain or pressure in the forehead, cheeks, temples, nose and behind the eyes, according to MayoClinic.com. A chronic sinusitis infection is treated using antibiotics. Nasal corticosteroids are used to reduce nasal swelling. Antihistamines are used to prevent and relieve allergy symptoms that could cause sinusitis. Decongestants are also available over the counter to reduce nasal congestion.
Prevention of Sinusitis
If you have a history of allergies and asthma attacks, you can prevent chronic sinusitis by taking allergy medication regularly, according to MayoClinic.com. Untreated allergy symptoms are a major cause of chronic sinusitis. In order to prevent chronic sinusitis caused by upper respiratory infections, you should treat the infection immediately. Use decongestants and saline nasal sprays regularly during an upper respiratory infection so as to reduce congestion in sinuses and nasal passages. Purchase a humidifier and also increase fluid intake so as to thin mucus, which can block sinuses and lead to sinusitis.
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