Sinus - Sinusitis

What is Sinusitus?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of one or more of the four paranasal sinuses. The frontal sinuses, which are in the forehead just above the eyes, and the maxillary sinuses, which are behind the cheekbones, are the ones that are commonly affected.

There are two types of sinusitis: Acute and Chronic.

Acute sinusitis is usually caused by an infection - bacterial, viral or fungal - but a common cold is the most frequent cause. The nasal inflammation and mucus congestion, due to a cold, may prevent proper drainage and removal of bacteria from the sinus, resulting in infection.

Chronic sinusitis often results in people who suffer from long-term allergies or repeated, previously untreated acute infections.

What are the symptoms?

Sinusitis sufferers may experience some or all of the following symptoms: