Are Your Sinuses Bothering You? Chances are high that they are! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 29.4 million adults are diagnosed with sinusitis every year. That does not include all the cases that go undiagnosed. Chronic sinusitis affects approximately 15% of the U.S. population and is one of the most common chronic illnesses in the US.

What is Sinusitis and are You At Risk?

Recent research indicates that digestive problems may contribute to sinus problems; “Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Case Report”. Here I share some details about sinuses, risk factors, as well as treatment options for you to explore.

What are sinuses?

They are made up of 4 hollow air spaces on each side of your head located behind your cheeks, jaw, and eyebrows; 2 maxillary, 2 ethmoid, sphenoid, and 2 frontal sinuses.

How long does sinusitis inflammation last?

Acute sinusitis can last up to 4 weeks, subacute symptoms between 4-12 weeks, chronic symptoms 12 weeks or longer and recurrent acute 4 or more acute episodes within a year.

Causes of sinusitis?

Sinusitis can occur when fluid gets trapped or blocked in the sinuses. The most common cause is a virus, bacterial infections are seen less. allergies, a cold, deviated septum, polyps, changes in temperature or air pressure.

Symptoms of sinusitis?

You will experience coughing, headache, nasal congestion, post nasal drip, pain or pressure in your cheeks, forehead, and nose, reduced sense of taste and smell, fatigue, bad breath, toothache.

Treatment of sinusitis

Saline nasal sprays, saline irrigation, humidifier or vaporizer, hydrate, rest, moist heat on your face, otc decongestants, herbs and supplements, craniosacral massage, craniopathy, chiropractic, and acupuncture. In severe cases, antibiotics may be necessary.

 Risk factors for sinusitis?

Risk factors include allergies, alcohol, smoking, dry cold weather, overuse of decongestant nasal sprays, having a cold, polyps, deviated septum, swimming or diving, pressure and temperature changes.

Questions about sinusitis? Ask Dr. Perillo!