What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is a sinus infection and an inflammation of the sinuses. This can cause the tissues lining the sinuses to become swollen and inflamed which might lead to an infection. Sinusitis can be classified into several types based on the duration and frequency of the condition:

·      Acute Sinusitis: This form lasts for a short period, usually less than four weeks. It is often caused by a common cold and is typically characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, runny nose, and reduced sense of smell.

·      Subacute Sinusitis: This type lasts between four to twelve weeks and can occur when acute sinusitis does not resolve completely.

·      Chronic Sinusitis: This form persists for twelve weeks or longer, despite treatment attempts. Symptoms are similar to acute sinusitis but may be less severe and last longer.

·      Recurrent Sinusitis: This refers to multiple episodes of acute sinusitis occurring several times a year.

How is sinusitis diagnosed?

Sinusitis is typically diagnosed based on many different factors. Here are the common steps and methods used in diagnosing sinusitis:

·      Medical History: The healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, their duration, and any factors that may have triggered them, such as recent infections or allergies. They will also inquire about any previous episodes of sinusitis and any treatments you've tried.

·      Physical Examination: During the examination, the doctor may:

o     Inspect the nasal passages using a lighted instrument (nasal endoscopy) to check for signs of inflammation, polyps, or other abnormalities.

o     Apply gentle pressure on your face, particularly around the sinuses, to identify areas of pain or tenderness.

o     Use a tool called an otoscope to look into your ears, as ear infections can sometimes be associated with sinusitis.

·      Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests may be recommended to get a clearer view of the sinuses. These may include:

o     X-rays: Though not commonly used for diagnosing sinusitis, they can sometimes show significant sinus blockages.

o     CT Scan: A computed tomography (CT) scan provides detailed images of the sinuses and can help identify blockages, inflammation, or other structural problems.

o     MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used in certain cases to evaluate soft tissues and detect potential complications.

·      Nasal and Sinus Cultures: If your sinusitis is not responding to standard treatments, your doctor may take a sample of mucus from your nose or sinuses to determine the exact cause of the infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal).

·      Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected to be a contributing factor to your sinusitis, your doctor may recommend allergy tests to identify specific allergens triggering your symptoms.

·      Endoscopy: A more detailed nasal endoscopy might be performed using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at the end. This allows the doctor to see deep into the nasal passages and sinuses.

By knowing these steps in diagnosing sinusitis, we can see what's ahead of us in this medical condition.

How is sinusitis treated?

Treatment for sinusitis depends on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Here are some common treatments:

Acute Sinusitis

·      Home Remedies:

o      Rest: Adequate rest helps the body fight the infection.

o      Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus.

o      Humidifier: Using a humidifier or steam inhalation can relieve congestion.

o      Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the face can reduce pain and pressure.

·      Over-the-Counter Medications:

o      Decongestants: Oral or nasal decongestants can reduce nasal congestion (e.g., pseudoephedrine or oxymetazoline).

o      Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can relieve pain and reduce fever.

o      Saline Nasal Sprays: These help keep the nasal passages moist and flush out mucus.

·      Prescription Medications:

o      Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected and symptoms are severe, antibiotics may be prescribed. However, antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.

o      Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays: These reduce inflammation in the nasal passages (e.g., fluticasone or mometasone).

Chronic Sinusitis

·      Nasal Irrigation:

o      Saline Irrigation: Using a neti pot or saline spray can help flush out mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.

·      Prescription Medications:

o      Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays: Long-term use can reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms.

o      Oral or Injectable Corticosteroids: Used in severe cases to reduce inflammation.

o      Antibiotics: Long-term antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is present.

·      Allergy Treatments:

o      Antihistamines: These help control allergic reactions.

o      Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): May be recommended for severe allergies contributing to sinusitis.

·      Surgery:

o      Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: In cases where other treatments fail, surgery may be needed to remove blockages, polyps, or correct structural issues in the sinuses.

Recurrent Sinusitis

·      Identify and Address Underlying Causes:

o      Allergy Management: Avoiding allergens, using antihistamines, or immunotherapy.

o      Treating Nasal Polyps or Deviated Septum: Surgery may be needed to correct structural issues.

·      Preventive Measures:

o      Good Hygiene: Washing hands regularly to prevent infections.

o      Avoiding Smoking: Smoke can irritate the nasal passages and sinuses.

o      Humidifying the Air: Using a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist.

Additional Treatments

·      Alternative Therapies:

o      Acupuncture: Some people find relief from sinusitis symptoms through acupuncture.

o      Herbal Remedies: Certain herbal treatments may help, but it's essential to consult with an acupuncturist or herbalist for the proper herbal formula.

How can acupuncture help sinusitis patients?

There are several ways acupuncture may help with the condition:

1. Reducing Inflammation and Swelling:

·       Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, which can alleviate symptoms such as congestion and pressure. It stimulates the body's natural anti-inflammatory responses.

2. Improving Sinus Drainage:

·       Acupuncture can enhance the flow of mucus, helping to clear blocked sinuses. This can relieve nasal congestion and reduce the risk of bacterial infections.

3. Relieving Pain and Pressure:

·       Acupuncture is known for its analgesic properties. It can help reduce facial pain and pressure associated with sinusitis by promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

4. Boosting the Immune System:

·       Acupuncture can strengthen the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off infections that can cause or exacerbate sinusitis.

5. Reducing Stress:

·       Stress can weaken the immune system and exacerbate sinusitis symptoms. Acupuncture can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can improve overall health and resilience.

6. Balancing Body Functions:

·       According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture helps restore balance in the body's energy flow (Qi). This balance is believed to support overall health and the proper functioning of bodily systems, including the respiratory system.