Sinusitis
Understanding Sinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the air-filled chambers (sinuses) around the nose and eyes. It is a common health condition which affects up to 1 in 7 people in the UK each year. Sinusitis can be caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, or an allergy.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
The symptoms of sinusitis can include:
- a blocked or runny nose
- headaches
- pain and pressure around the eyes, cheeks and forehead
- pain in the upper jaw and teeth
- a reduced sense of smell and taste
- fatigue or tiredness
- a fever, post-nasal drip and bad breath
Causes of Sinusitis
The most common cause of sinusitis in the UK is a viral infection such as the common cold. Other causes include:
- Allergies – to pollen, fungal spores, pet dander, etc.
- Structural issues in the nose such as nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or enlarged adenoids
- Infection with bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Staphylococcus aureus
- Fungal infections
- Exposure to pollutants such as smoke and chemicals
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