Sinus and Its Prevention

Sinusitis can be defined as injury in the tissue or the lining of sinus. Healthy sinuses are filled with air. But when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.

Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include:

• The common cold
• Allergic rhinitis, which is swelling of the lining of the nose
• Small growths in the lining of the nose called nasal polyps
• A deviated septum, which is a shift in the nasal cavity

Types of Sinusitis

You may hear your doctor use these terms:

• Acute sinusitis usually starts with cold like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain. It may start suddenly and last 2-4 weeks.
• Sub acute sinus inflammation usually lasts 4 to 12 weeks.
• Chronic inflammation symptoms last 12 weeks or longer.
• Recurrent sinusitis happens several times a year.
• Common causes of chronic sinusitis include:
• Nasal polyps. These tissue growths can block the nasal passages or sinuses.
• Other medical conditions. The complications of cystic fibrosis, gastro esophageal reflux, or HIV and other immune system-related diseases can result in nasal blockage.

Prevention of Sinusitis

This entire step should be notted to reduce the risk of getting chronic sinusitis:

• Avoid upper respiratory infections. Minimize contact with people who have colds. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before meals.
• Manage your allergies.  Move according to the instruction given by doctor to improve your allergy.
• Avoid cigarette smoke and polluted air. Tobacco smoke and air contaminants can irritate and inflame your lungs and nasal passages.
• Use a humidifier. Air inside the home must get dry; it happens if you have forced hot air heat, adding moisture to the air may help prevent sinusitis. Be sure to keep the humidifier clean and free of mold with regular, thorough cleaning.
• Treat stuffiness (nasal congestion) caused by cold or allergies promptly. Avoid contact with people who have colds and other viral upper respiratory infections. If you do have contact with people who have these infections, wash your hands often, especially after being in contact with those who are infected.
• Avoid cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoke in your home and workplace. Smoke causes and further irritates inflamed membranes in your nose and sinuses.

Inherited person with allergies should reduce the things that are the reason behind the allergic attacks. And take consultancy with your family doctor so that he/she could give you the correct anti-allergic pills. For more information, see the topic Allergic Rhinitis.

Avoid breathing dry air. Consider using a humidifier at home and work to increase the moisture in the air.

Make sure your child gets all the recommended immunizations. Some immunizations, such as pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, may help prevent ear and sinus infections.