General Sinus Infection
Sinuses are cavities inside a person’s skull that are positioned around the eyes and nose, particularly within the front of the face. They are lined with cilia, hair-like cells that are very fine. They are thin because they help drain mucus through the sinuses’ passages and out into the nose.
These cavities help make the skull lighter. They also moisten the nasal passages by producing mucus. The mucus acts as a viscous protective layer to aid in keeping out foreign contaminants and particles like pollutants, dirt, and contagious organisms.
Sinusitis can make it difficult to breathe through the nose. People suffering from acute sinusitis or chronic sinusitis often also experience:
- Facial pain and pressure
- Nasal congestion and blockage
- Lost or reduced sense of smell and/or taste
- Headaches
- Postnasal drip
The sinuses are four pairs of air-filled cavities in the bones surrounding the nose and eyes. The sinuses work together to warm or cool inhaled air, humidify it and remove dust and allergens.
Several factors can inflame or block the sinuses. They include:
- Allergies
- Colds and respiratory infections
- Nasal polyps
- Bacterial infections
- An anatomical problem
Sinusitis symptoms often get misdiagnosed as other conditions. Allergies, colds and upper respiratory infections share similar symptoms.
Chronic Sinusitis Overview
- Inflammation that lasts for 12 weeks or longer
- Not always treatable by antibiotics
- Expensive; It costs the United States 8.6 billion per year
- Unproductive; It generates 73 million days of restricted activity or lost work
- Treatable; There are new sinusitis treatment options and advances
Sinus surgery is an operation whose purpose is to clear the pathways of the sinuses and unclog blockages. This kind of surgery can be performed with little discomfort. It is a brief process that only has few complications.
For incessant and recurrent sinus infections this is the best option for most patients. Most patients with abnormal sinus structure or abnormal growths in the sinus often resort to this operation. A doctor will usually try other treatments and procedures first before resorting to surgery. If these doesn’t produce results, surgery will be the last resort.
Always closely follow your doctor’s guidelines for aftercare and take all medications as prescribed to avoid side-effects. Patients may have to make changes in their lifestyle for the first 2 weeks after surgery.
Dr. Kanwar Kelley is located at Orinda California and if you need Sinus Surgery, don’t hesitate to make an appointment (833) 880-7433. He is an experienced physician in many illnesses who can guide your health in the right direction.