Mucus plays a crucial role in our respiratory system by trapping dust, bacteria, and other harmful particles. This protective mechanism is vital whether the cause is a virus, the most common culprit behind sinus infections, or bacteria. Chronic rhinosinusitis, which affects about 11% of U.S. adults according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, often requires long-term treatment with antibiotics. This condition leads to repeated inflammation and repair in the sinus tissues, akin to the thickening of calloused skin. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to resolve these issues.
Understanding the physical symptoms of sinusitis is essential, as they can be quite debilitating. Treatment options vary, but accurate diagnosis is key. Infections can be bacterial, viral, or fungal, leading to blocked sinus cavities and inflamed mucus membranes.
Loss of smell, often associated with sinus infections, usually comes with more pronounced symptoms like facial pain or pressure. In contrast, COVID-19 symptoms may include fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues. Due to overlapping symptoms, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.
Other common symptoms of a sinus infection include bad breath, fever, lethargy, loss of smell or taste, and ear pressure. Unlike common colds, where symptoms resolve in about 7 to 10 days, sinus infection symptoms follow a different trajectory. Documenting the timing, duration, and severity of symptoms, along with any previous interventions and their outcomes, is beneficial. Diagnosis often involves a “nasal endoscopy”, where a fiber-optic telescope examines the interior of the nasal cavity.
In adults, chronic sinusitis is frequently linked to nasal swelling caused by allergies to substances like dust, mold, pollen, or fungi spores. These allergies can trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, causing swelling in the nose and blocking sinus drainage. To continue reading about this topic, visit Harvard Health, UW Newsroom, USF Health News, Ohio State Health & Discovery, Keck Medicine of USC, and UC Davis Health.
