The Real Facts on Sinusitis
Symptoms, Treatments, and Tips on dealing with Sinusitis

Sinuses are commonly known as the air chambers in the bone behind your cheeks, eyebrows and jaw. Sinuses create mucus, a fluid that cleans bacteria and other particles out of the air you breathe. Tiny hairs called cilia sweep mucus out of your sinuses so it can drain out through your nose.
Sinusitis the condition where the lining in your sinus becomes inflamed. Sinusitis is caused by anything that makes your sinuses swell or keeps the cilia from moving mucus. Various causes include changes in temperature or air pressure, using decongestant nasal sprays too much, smoking, and swimming or diving. These can all increase your risk of getting sinusitis. Growths called polyps that block sinus passages can also cause sinusitis.
You get a sinus infection when your sinusitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Sinus infection also occurs sometimes after you catch a cold—the cold virus attacks the lining of your sinuses, causing them to swell and become constricted. Your body responds to the virus by producing more mucus. This built-up mucus makes a good place for bacteria to grow. The bacteria can then cause a sinus infection.
Acute Sinusitis
A sign of acute sinusitis is a cold that appears to get better but gets worse. Pain or pressure in some areas of the face (forehead, cheeks or between the eyes) is often a sign of blocked drainage in your sinus and can be a sign of acute sinusitis. Other symptoms may include a stuffy nose, fever and an ache in your upper teeth. Pain in your forehead that starts when you lean forward can also be a sign.
Acute Sinusitis Treatments
Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic which you should take for ten to fourteen days. It is important to take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, as the bacteria may grow resistant and develop into a more serious infection if you stop taking your medicine too soon. Always continue taking it until it is gone, even after you’re feeling better. If you have sinus pain or pressure, your doctor may prescribe or recommend a decongestant to help your sinuses drain.
Tips to treat Sinusitis at Home
You should get plenty of rest. Lying down can make your sinuses feel more blocked. Try lying down on your side to help breathe better. Also, keep yourself hydrated and soothed by sipping hot liquids and drink plenty of fluids. You can also soothe your inflammation by breathing in steam through a cloth or towel.
Be sure to talk with your doctor before using an over-the-counter cold medicine. Some cold medicines can make your symptoms worse or cause other problems.