Sinusitis Causes, Symptoms & 7 Treatment Sources

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses—the air-filled cavities located in the bones around the nose. When this occurs the lining of the sinuses swells, causing a blockage in the channel that drains them. A build-up of mucus discharge results, creating intense pressure and pain. Sinusitis usually develops as a complication of a viral infection such as a cold, but pollution or tobacco can also be triggers. Severe symptoms should be referred to your physician.

Symptoms 
• nasal congestion with thick, stretchy mucus
• nosebleeds and sneezing
• loss of sense of smell
• headache with a sensation of pressure in and around the head
• severe pain around the eyes and cheeks (particularly on bending down), sometimes feeling like toothache

More than 50 percent of cases are caused by bacterial infection. In one U.S. study, 50 percent of sufferers had an immune-system problem. 10 percent of all cases are caused by dental problems. The proximity of the paranasal sinuses to the brain makes sinus infections potentially dangerous. Inflammation of the sinuses may develop from an allergy or from bacteria introduced through the nasal channels, causing an infection accompanied by pain and tenderness.

Chronic sinusitis may result from either form or a combination of both. Maxillary sinusitis can result from a cold or can be caused by swimming in contaminated water. Rarely, extraction of a molar tooth will break the floor of the maxillary sinus, leaving an opening for bacteria to enter and cause infection. Frontal and ethmoid sinusitis share symptoms of localized headache, surface tenderness, and, occasionally, swelling of the eyelids. Sphenoid sinusitis can cause blurred vision because of the proximity of this sinus to the optic nerves.

7 TREATMENT 

1. Ayurveda 
Treatment will involve the elimination of kapha with nasya (inhalation of oils). Herbal treatment may be prescribed, including coriander for sinus problems and related headaches. Detoxification will be appropriate.

2. Chinese Herbalism 
Bi Yan Pian pills are very good for sinusitis, especially with sticky yellow nasal discharge, which is hard to get out. A herbal prescription of Cang er Zi San, when there is lots of green nasal discharge, headache and pain. Xin Yi San, when there is lots of clear or white nasal discharge, nasal congestion, and pain. Peppermint, honeysuckle, tangerine peel, and zanthium fruit may all be useful.

3. Traditional Home and Folk Remedies
Peppermint is antispasmodic and decongestant. Infuse some fresh or dried leaves in a bowl of boiling water, and inhale the steam. Combine the juice of a fresh peeled and pulped horseradish root with the juice of two or three lemons, and take a half-teaspoon between meals. Use for several months until the mucus in the sinus clears.

4. Herbalism 
Elderflower is excellent for catarrh and sinusitis. Drink an infusion as required to reduce symptoms and encourage healing. Drink an infusion of golden seal every two hours during an acute attack.

5. Aromatherapy 
Try steam inhalations of lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree, which are anticatarrhal and antibacterial. Lavender in particular will act as an anti-inflammatory and ease any painful symptoms.

6. Homeopathy 
Kali bich. is the main remedy, particularly for thick, sticky mucus that accumulates in the throat, and which is difficult to clear. Try Hep. sulf. if Kali bich. does not help.Pulsatilla, for sinusitis accompanied by weepiness and pain above the eyes. 

7. Vitamins and Minerals 
Many cases are caused by food allergy or intolerance. See a practitioner if you suspect this is the cause.

CAUTION
Golden seal is not appropriate for people with high blood pressure, or for pregnant women.