Chronic Sinusitis
Sinus infections are a common complaint for both adults and children. In fact, it is the most common reason for doctor visits in the US. Addressing underlying causes of sinusitis is important and working to create a balanced internal environment are worthwhile goals.
Using gentle natural medicines to both prevent and address acute or chronic sinusitis is a good place to start. If your sinus infection does not go away or worsens, there is also a time for antibiotic treatment. At Integrative Medicine of Idaho, we can help you navigate your sinusitis treatment.
The main symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:
-
Stuffy nose and post nasal drip
-
Thick yellow to green, offensive smelling discharge from the nose
-
Pain and pressure around the nose, eyes and face
-
Cough and/or fever
-
Brain fog
-
Fatigue
Identifying Sinusitus
When you have a sinus infection the tissues in the maxillary sinuses become inflamed and swollen, which can also happen with a common cold or from allergies. So how do you tell the difference between a cold and sinus infection? A cold starts as a virus with a runny nose for a few days, followed by a stuffy nose for another few days and then it typically subsides. The mucus will be clear and the whole uncomfortable situation will be done in about 7 days.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection is caused by a build-up of mucus and bacteria that lingers and causes an infection. A small percentage of colds may turn into sinus infections, which is why it’s important to stay hydrated and flush out your sinuses with saline so bacteria doesn’t get trapped and get infected
Cold vs Sinusitis
There are recognizable differences between a cold and sinus infection: duration and fever. Sinus infections last longer than colds (more than 7 days), the mucus is colored green and you may have a fever from the trapped bacterial infection.
Possible Causes
Any of these can lead to blockage and build- up of mucus where germs can set up shop and cause infection:
Cigarette smoking, air pollution, deviated septum, sinus polyps, changes in air pressure (airplane or scuba diving), ongoing dental issues, and injury to the facial area.
Addressing the Root Cause of Chronic Sinusitis
Addressing underlying causes of sinusitis is important and working to create a balanced internal environment are worthwhile goals. Using gentle natural medicines to both prevent and address acute or chronic sinusitis is a good place to start. Individual Treatment plans may include:
​
Probiotics and ingesting foods that are cultured and fermented is key to helping with sinusitis. By creating a robust and diverse microbiome you will support healthy immune action.
​
Immune raising nutrients such as vitamin C and Zinc, along with N-acetyl cysteine, quercetin, and the botanical medicines, echinacea and astragalus.
​
Food allergy testing to see if some foods, even healthy foods, might be aggravating your condition.
