Sinusitis and Nose Congestion

Sinusitus Nose CongestionSinusitis nose – Sinusitis and the nose go hand in hand most of the time. When you have sinusitis, nose congestion almost always is a factor as well. There are many documented causes of sinusitis and nose congestion, and almost as many cures. So what causes sinusitis and nose problems and what are the easiest ways to cure it?

Sinusitis and nose congestion is more commonly known as rhinosinusitis, as it is said that you cannot have sinusitis without nose inflammation or congestion as well. This is usually a result of one or more of the following:

1) Viral – The common cold is one of the viruses that cause sinusitis nose congestion. This type usually lasts around 7 days. This is the most common and easiest to cure this type of sinusitis and nose congestion.

 
2) Bacterial – Bacterial sinusitis and nose congestion are more persistent than the viral infections. Some studies say this is possibly caused by nose blowing, as the bacteria actually travels up into the sinus cavities.

 

 

3) Fungal – This type of sinusitis is usually found in people with diabetes or other immune deficiencies. This will almost always result in chronic sinusitis and nose inflammation.

 
4) Allergies – Some allergens can be environmental in nature. Allergies can cause the mucus membrane to swell, which block the air passages, making it difficult to breathe.

 
5) Chemical irritation – Chemicals like cigarette smoke and chlorine fumes are also known to cause sinusitis and nose congestion.

 

6) Autoimmune diseases – Though very rare, autoimmune diseases can also cause sinusitis. This is because the body does not have enough antibodies to fight the bacteria or viruses packed into the nasal cavity.

 

How Long Does It Last?

Sinusitis nose congestion can last around 3 weeks or more. There are 3 classifications of sinusitis and nose congestion.

Acute Sinusitis – going on less than 4 weeks. This is usually precipitated by an upper respiratory tract infection.

Sub-acute Sinusitis – has been hanging around for between 4 to 8 weeks.

Chronic Sinusitis – Sinusitis and nasal issues that have been going on for 8 weeks or more. This is the serious type of sinusitis that may lead to complications.


What Are the Common Cures?

There are a lot of suggested cures for sinusitis nose congestion or inflammation. All it takes is finding the right information and the best solution to suit you. There is no miracle solution, but there is definitely a lot of information about how to alleviate the pain and nasal congestion. Here are some of the more common treatments.

At Home

  1. Inhale steam. This helps with draining the excess mucus in the nasal cavity.
  2. Use decongestants or natural nasal sprays.
  3. Avoid antihistamines. While these are wonderful for allergies, they also cause mucus to thicken in the nasal passageways.
  4. Over the counter pain relievers like aspirin can help with the pain.

Check with your Doctor

  1. Antibiotics – this helps if the sinusitis and nose congestion is bacterial in nature.
  2. Corticosteriods – this works by blocking chemicals released to help with inflammation.
  3. Nose Sprays – there are a lot of brands out there, so check with a professional to make sure which ones work for you.

Of course, as with the common cold, it is always recommended to drink lots of fluids to hydrate the body. Sleep with your head elevated, as this helps with clearing the air passages, making it easier to breathe. Sinusitis nose congestion can be a pain, but it does not have to make you miserable for weeks if you follow some of the suggestions above.