Why do we get Sinus Infections, and What are the Symptoms?
A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, is characterized by an inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses. Sinuses in the human head consist of four pairs of hollow, air-filled cavities. Connected to the space between the nasal passage and the nostrils, sinuses reduce the weight of the skull by helping to insulate it. The four passages are located in the forehead, between the eyes, behind the ears, and behind the cheekbones.
Some of the symptoms associated with a sinus infection are:
- Repeated coughing
- Fever
- Nasal congestion accompanied by thick secretions
- Bad breath
- Headaches
- A feeling of pressure behind the:
- Nose
- Cheeks
- Eyes
- Sides of the head
Stop Taking the Wrong Treatment for Sinus Infections
Recurring sinus infections are often treated with antibiotics. This seems to clear things up for a while but then a recurrence begins.
The U.S. National Center for Disease Control and Prevention advises that the majority of sinus infections are viral in nature, and that prescription antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. Also, the thickened mucus in both viral and bacterial sinus infections attracts buildup of mold and yeast fungus. Antibiotics cannot resolve fungus, and in fact may destroy the "good" bodily bacteria needed to fight this type of infection.
For information about how to properly treat a sinus infection, it is recommended that you contact your physician.
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