In frontal sinusitis, the sinuses located in the frontal sinus cavity have become inflamed. This happens because mucus accumulates there and cannot drain due to a blockage.
A sinus infection is usually triggered by a normal cold. The paranasal sinuses become blocked due to overproduction of nasal secretions, causing a backlog that can reach into the sinuses. If the nasal secretions are not allowed to drain, pressure develops and the sinuses become inflamed (sinusitis).
Sinusitis treatment and relief
What causes sinusitis
The frontal sinus consists of several air-filled cavities directly behind and above the eye. Together with the other sinuses, the frontal sinus produces secretions that drain through the nose. If the secretions are not let out, for example by "pulling up the nose" instead of blowing the nose, or by blockage in the nose, inflammation occurs. The inflammation prevents further drainage of the nasal secretions, and the inflammation gets worse. If the inflammation is left untreated, bacteria can form, which can lead to a sinus infection or sinus infection.
Frontal sinusitis is generally caused by nasal secretions that do not drain. The prevention of drainage can have several causes:
Viral infection
Cold viruses are the most common cause of excess nasal mucus and its build-up in the sinuses.
Bacterial infection
The accumulated excess nasal mucus forms an optimal breeding ground for bacteria. If the bacteria start to multiply, pus forms and the symptoms are much more severe.
Nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are abnormal growths in the sinuses that can block the drainage of nasal secretions and thus cause sinusitis.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
The most common symptom is intense pain above the eyebrows and around the eyes. Other symptoms include constant discharge of mucus through the nose or throat, pressure behind the eyes, reduced sense of smell, cough, general s malaise, increased temperature, sore throat and lethargy.
Treatment of sinusitis
Treatment depends on the cause. A bacterial infection is usually treated with an antibiotic, while a viral infection is treated with nasal spray and an anti-inflammatory. If polyps are the cause, they must be surgically removed.
For the treatment and relief of viral sinusitis, ibuprofen is recommended as an anti-inflammatory and for pain relief. In addition, camomile steam baths help.
How to clear the sinus cavity
To reduce the pressure of the accumulated mucus in the sinus, you can drain the sinus to allow the mucus to drain. To drain, apply pressure over a large area of the palate with the tongue. At the same time, apply pressure to the sinus from the outside with your fingers, just above the eyebrow. Hold this pressure for about 20 seconds.
How long does a sinus infection last?
Usually, the symptoms subside after about a week of treatment. A bacterial infection can take a little longer and must be treated by a doctor in any case. If the symptoms persist for more than two months, a chronic disease may develop.
How to prevent sinusitis
Hygiene is the best form of prevention. Regular hand washing reduces the penetration of bacteria and viruses into the sinuses. Drink plenty of fluids to protect the mucous membranes from drying out.
It is important to blow your nose frequently when you have a cold to prevent mucus from building up in the sinus cavity.
Healthy sinuses and inflamed sinuses: Scheme
Natural home remedies for sinusitis
General home remedies for sinusitis
- Drink plenty of water
To flush the virus out of the system, one should be sufficiently hydrated. The goal is to drink at least one glass of water every 2 hours. - Eat foods with antibacterial properties.n
To fight the infection, add antibacterial foods such as garlic, ginger and onions to meals.
Drinking ginger tea is also useful. Add honey for an extra boost. Honey is packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. - Keep sinuses moist
Keep the sinuses hydrated to relieve pressure. Here are some tips for well-hydrated sinuses:- Sleep with a humidifier in the bedroom at night to relieve nasal congestion at night.
- Use nasal sprays with natural saline during the day and before bed. Avoid sprays that contain oxymetazoline, as you can become dependent on this spray.
- Take a steam bath. Take regular hot showers and breathe in the moist air. You can also fill a bowl with boiling water and bend over it for 10 minutes. Cover both your head and the bowl with a thick towel.
- Cleanse the sinuses with oils
Eucalyptus oil can help open up the sinuses and get rid of mucus. One study found that the main ingredient in eucalyptus oil, cineole, helped people with acute sinusitis recover more quickly.
To relieve sinus or upper respiratory infections, use eucalyptus oil externally on the temples or chest, or inhale it through a diffuser when the oil is added to boiling water.
Be sure to use only food-grade essential oils. Rub a drop of each oil on the palate and then drink a glass of water. - Soothe facial pain with warm compresses
Applying moist, warm heat can help relieve sinus pain. Place warm, damp towels around the nose, cheeks and eyes to relieve facial pain. This will also help to clear the nasal passages from the outside.
