Psyllium husk can indirectly cause sinusitis if you are allergic to the supplement. Psyllium husk is a common herbal supplement used to treat constipation and diarrhea because of its ability to soften and add bulk to your stool. Sinusitis is inflammation in the sinus cavity that can lead to infection. If you have an allergy to psyllium husk and you continue to ingest the herb, you can cause constant inflammation in your sinus cavity, which can cause infection to set in. If you believe you have sinusitis, or a sinus infection, make an appointment with your doctor and stop using psyllium husk.
Psyllium Husk Allergy
MedlinePlus states that common allergic reactions to psyllium husk include swollen sinuses, sneezing, hives, asthma and swollen eyelids. During an allergic reaction your body unleashes antibodies -- disease-fighting agents that attack the proteins in the supplement. This chemical reaction in the body causes a disturbance in your soft tissue that triggers microscopic explosions of histamine. Histamine triggers inflammation in soft tissues from dilated blood vessels. Sinus inflammation will cause blockage in your breathing, excessive mucus production and postnasal drip.
Sinusitis
When your sinus cavity becomes swollen, your nasal passages, throat and nose become inflamed, reducing the ability to drain extra mucus. Trapped mucus in the sinus cavity will lead to facial tenderness, sinus pain and headaches. The trapped mucus in the sinuses creates an environment for infection to thrive in. Discharge may become thick, yellow and green and filled with pus. The most common causes of an infection are viruses, bacteria and fungi. Your doctor will determine the type of infection you may have.
Symptoms
If you develop a sinus headache or sinus pressure after using psyllium husk supplements one time, you most likely do not have a sinus infection. The continual use of the supplement is what will propitiate an infection. Symptoms that are common with an acute sinus infection include drainage down your throat; pain in your eyes, nose, forehead and cheeks; aching in your jaw or teeth; coughing; reduction in smelling and tasting; fever; bad breath; and a sore throat.
Treatment
If you are diagnosed with an allergy to psyllium, you will be advised to eliminate the supplement from your diet. If you have a sinus infection, your doctor may recommend the use of saline nasal sprays, antibiotics, if the injection is bacterial, decongestants and pain relievers.
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