Sinusitis

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is a condition where swelling or inflammation occurs in the tissue that is covering the sinuses. Sinuses are actually air-filled spaces that surround the nasal cavity. However, during an inflammation, they get blocked and fluid accumulates that lead to the growth of microbes and causes infection. 

What Are The Symptoms Of Sinusitis?

The commonly identified symptoms of sinusitis are:

• Fever.
• Facial pain.
• A runny nose.
• Loss of olfaction (sense of smell).
• Fatigue.
• Cough.
• Severe congestion.

What Are The Causes Of Sinusitis?

Causes for sinusitis are generally cited to be:

• Common cold.
• Allergic rhinitis.
• Deformed septum in the nasal cavity.
• Formation of nasal polyps.

What Are The Things One Should Do To Manage Sinusitis?

• Drink enough fluids.
• Use warm compresses to relieve sinus pressure and open the blockage.
• Use a humidifier to reduce the stuffiness in the nose.
• Use nasal douches or nett pots to rinse sinuses.

What Are The Things One Should Avoid To Manage Sinusitis?

• Avoid taking flights or travelling to high altitudes as it can increase the symptoms of sinusitis. 
• Don’t consume alcohol.
• Avoid irritants like dust and pollen. 

What Are The Best Foods For Sinusitis?

The most recommended foods for sinusitis are:

• Pineapple is a rich source of antioxidants which help in protecting the damage of delicate mucous membranes. Its enzymes help in the breakdown of blockage in sinuses and reduce inflammation.
• Spinach: It is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that help open up the clogged passage in the sinus.
• Ginger: It contains high amounts of antihistamines, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that help with reduction in Sinusitis.
• Anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial foods: Such foods reduce inflammation and reduce the activity of microbes in the sinus area. These include coconut oil, turmeric, pepper, garlic, onion, etc.  

What Are The Worst Foods For Sinusitis?

The food items to be avoided in the condition of sinusitis are:

• Salt or salty foods: Avoid excess salt intake as it increases water retention in inflamed tissues.
• Fried food items: These foods have higher amounts of saturated fats and cholesterol, leading to poor oxygen supply and blockage in the sinus
• Meat: It promotes inflammation and contains high levels of saturated fat.
• Dairy products: These foods increase mucous production leading to worsened condition. These include milk, cheddar cheese, pizza cheese, etc. 

What Are The Medicines For Sinusitis?

What Are The Tips To Manage Sinusitis?

• Regularly flush nasal passages.
• Use clean water to wash hands, face and nose.
• Visit allergist in the case of common cold for several weeks.