- Sinuses are lined with fine hair-like projections called cilia that move mucus toward a short tube called the ostium. The size of the ostium varies; however, in most people it's approximately 1/16-inch in diameter. Sinusitis occurs when the ostium is blocked and the nose is unable to eliminate mucus. The trapped mucus encourages bacteria growth and pus pockets develop.
- Symptoms of sinusitis include post-nasal drip (clear or colored), stuffiness, pressure in the nose, sore throat, hoarseness, cough, tooth pain, headache, fever, decreased sense of smell and a full feeling in the ears.
- After three weeks of experiencing symptoms, see a family doctor. The longer you wait, the more difficult sinusitis is to treat and the chance of complications increase significantly. A doctor will ask about medical history and examine your nose with an endoscope. Depending on what's discovered, X-rays or a CT scan may be done.
- Doctors prescribe oral antibiotics for a brief period to treat sinusitis in addition to a steroid nasal spray, decongestant nasal spray and mucus thinner.
- At home, you can relieve symptoms with a steam vaporizer, nasal irrigation and aspirin (if tolerated). Also drink 15 to 20 8-oz glasses of liquid per day and try to breath through your nose.
- During a period of chronic sinusitis avoid alcohol (it's a diuretic) and breathing through your mouth.
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