Sinus Infection: Prevention and Diagnosis

December is one of the coldest months, especially in the northern hemisphere; here winters can be extremely cold and harsh. When a seasonal phenomenon occurs, the winter conditions can turn from bad to worse.
An example of a seasonal phenomenon is: El Niño.

Fact: There is an approximately 65% chance that El Niño conditions will be present during the Northern Hemisphere winter and last into the Northern Hemisphere spring 2015.

In a previous post: Avian Flu we learned how to protect ourselves from one type of influenza. Another similar disease that is associate with this season is: Sinusitis.

A Common Cold

The common cold is describe as an upper respiratory infection and is caused by a virus that infects the nose and throat. Cold symptoms are very similar to Sinusitis.

Usually no special treatment or medication is needed for the common cold, but some medications can ease symptoms.
Common cold symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nasal Congestion
• Nasal Drip
• Runny Nose

If a cold continues for more than 10 days, it can turn to Sinusitis.

What is a Sinus Infection?

A Sinus Infection can be describe as an inflammation or swelling of your sinuses. Normally our sinuses are filled with air, but when the weather changes or we have a cold, our sinuses can become blocked and filled with fluid and bacteria.

Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

Common symptoms of a Sinus Infection include:

• Cold that won't go away or gets worse
• Fever or cough
• Headache
• Nasal drip
• Nasal obstruction
• Pressure or pain around the face and eyes
• Thick, yellow nasal discharge

Note a sinus infection is not the same as a cold infection, normally a common cold is cured within 10 days. However when the symptoms continue it can turn to Sinusitis.

Diagnosing Sinus Infection and Treatment

To diagnose Sinus Infection, your doctor will do a physical exam and evaluate your medical history. In some cases, a CT scan or X-rays of your sinus will be require to determine the best treatment.

Treating a Sinus Infection

Most colds go away, however when these persist your health care provider will prescribe Antibiotics; but these will only be used when the common cold persist for more than 10 days.
Another method to treat Sinusitis is taking a steaming hot showers, this will loosen mucus. When infection becomes chronic or long-lasting, long-term antibiotics and maybe even surgery may be needed to re-establish adequate drainage.

For Sani Dental Group your oral health is our priority, but this is only one of the many areas that can be affected this winter season. We are constantly updating our skills and offering our patients the newest and most innovative dental procedures available.

In 2015, Sani Dental Group will offer you a new resource, our dental clinic will have new facilities. Now not only will we be de largest dental clinic in Los Algodones, but in addition we will offer you a clinical laboratory. Prevent diseases like the Sinus Infection, restore your smile and your health all at one stop.