Sinusitis – Types and Causes of sinusitis

There are two different types of Sinusitis: acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis.

Acute sinusitis

Acute sinusitis is temporary sinusitis that follows a common cold or flu. It usually stops within 30 days. Acute sinusitis is often associated with a viral or bacterial infection in the upper respiratory. This infection in turn spreads to the sinuses.

The causes of acute sinusitis are bacteria, virus, fungus, nose blowing, scuba diving, medications, and diseased teeth.

When the mucosa is exposed to viruses and bacteria, the mucosal lining swells. The sinus opening is blocked due to the swelling and causes pain. the symptoms of acute sinusitis include headache, fever and postnasal drip.

It is essential to treat acute sinusitis early to prevent the infection from spreading.

Chronic sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis occurs frequently or lasts for longer period. It is generally due to swelling caused by allergies, fungus, bacteria or virus. It is caused by allergies, asthma, temperature and humidity, narrow sinuses, defective mucous membrane, dehydration, weak immune system, hormones, stress, polyps or tumors. Constant exposure to pollen, smoke and chemicals causes inflammation of the mucosal lining of the nasal cavity.

The symptoms of chronic sinusitis are mild and include less severe headache. Nasal congestion and postnasal drip are some other symptoms. Usually there is no upper respiratory track infection and fever in chronic sinusitis.

Proper diagnosis and treatment can cure both acute and chronic sinusitis.