Statistics show that more than 30 Million Americans actually have sinusitis at least once a year. If you have ever experienced this condition, then you’d know how bothersome and painful it could be. Often times, even if you have doses of over the counter paracetamol drugs or analgesics, the pain would still not stop. Sinusitis is actually a serious in the sense that it can hamper the productivity and focus of an individual due to the pain it brings.

Sinusitis or sinus infection is the actual swelling of the sinuses. Sinuses are the hollow cavities that are connected to our nasal passage that usually contain air. However, due to a fungal, viral or bacterial infection, the sinus cavities can become blocked. Colds, Allergic Rhinitis, Nasal polyps, can all cause complications that leads to sinus issues symptoms.

The most common symptoms of sinus infection are headaches, pressure in the face, cheeks or behind the ears. This can also be accompanied by a stuffy nose or a runny nose. If the infection gets worse in the mouth area, coughs or congestion are also part of the symptoms. Sinus infection symptoms sore throat for some people.

Some other common symptoms affect the maxillary sinuses which are located under the eyes, at the cheekbone. Symptoms of maxillary sinus infection show that the eyes may be watery and bulged. Symptoms of sinus pain also can be felt when cheekbones hurt if pushed, touched or when pressure is applied. Dental pain may be present as well as bad breath, due to the bacteria build up in the nasal passage.

There are two known types of sinusitis – Acute and Chronic. Acute sinusitis is also considered as a seasonal sinusitis — the infections usually come and go and can be triggered by a change of weather, allergies, or a cold. The beginning of the infection comes with the usual symptoms that accompany a common cold like stuffy noses, nasal discharge and headaches. Over the counter medicines can be bought to bring relief for acute sinusitis, and this usually passes after some time.

Chronic sinusitis can last up to two months and is a condition where both the para nasal sinuses thicken because of constant inflammation. This can be triggered by constant sinusitis, allergies, or asthma. Chronic sinusitis also has all the symptoms of an acute sinusitis, only that the symptoms extend over a longer period of time.

Sinus infections should not be taken lightly. If you try to ignore the symptoms of sinus infection, or bear the pain and take painkillers, infection will still persist within your nasal cavities. The headaches usually worsen when this occurs, and your sight can also be blurred. Fevers can accompany sinus infections when left unchecked. Pain when bending over and reclining can also be experienced. Getting sleep can be difficult because of the pain. And in some cases when the infection reaches the eyes, blindness may occur.

The best treatment for sinusitis is to still simply see a doctor to address the symptoms. Sinusitis can be tricky and can get worse if not treated properly. Over the counter medicines do exist for the relief of pain and to treat some symptoms, but nothing will beat a specialists advise.