Diseases

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of a facial sinus, the air-filled space in the skull above, below, and behind the eyes. It refers specially to a paranasal sinus.

Persons most commonly affected: All age groups and both sexes, but more common in adults than in children.
Organ or part of body involved: Sinuses
Symptoms and indications: There is usually a preceding upper respiratory tract infection. Symptoms include headache, blocked nose with a greenish infected discharge, a feeling of heaviness and pain inside the head and face and possibly, disturbance of sleep. Depending upon the location of the affected sinus, there may be eye pain and inflammation.
Causes and risk factors: A sinus infection may be triggered by anything that prevents the mucus in the sinuses from draining properly. Possible causes include swimming and diving, injuries, abnormal structure of the facial bones, congestion from flu or a cold, allergies, or an abscess (inflamed pocket of pus) in a tooth, which may penetrate the sinuses and allow bacteria to enter them. Many different types of bacteria can cause sinusitis, including some of the same strains that lead to pneumonia, laryngitis, and middle ear infections.
Prevention: Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, identifying and treating allergies, and avoiding deep dives in swimming pools may help prevent sinus infections. Inhaling steam, regularly, will help relieve the drainage secretion. The body requires plenty of liquids, to increase its moisture levels, and rest and relaxation. Drink a lot of fluids, such as water, vitamin-rich fruit drinks etc. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine, such as, coffee, tea, cola and other fizzy drinks as these are diuretics, which could cause further dehydration. Eat healthy food, such as fruits and vegetables. Eat healthy food, such as fruits and vegetables. Don�t drink iced drinks (including iced tea and sodas), they aggravate sinus problems. Avoid anxiety and depression, and get plenty of rest. Avoid dairy products, which can increase mucus. Exercise outdoors to increase your circulation and clear sinus passages. Keep the room temperature comfortably warm and open the bedroom window a little so fresh air can circulate.