Sinus Infection & Homoeopathic treatment

Sinus Infection

Sinus infections refer to the inflammation of the para-nasal cavities caused by irritation of the sinus membranes. When the sinus cavities get irritated, they become blocked/congested which causes unbearable pain.

When the sinuses are infected, they overproduce mucus that will stagnate and result in pressure obstructing proper drainage and the free flow of air.

The causes of a sinus infection

• Cold
• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Fungi
• Temperature changes
• The change in barometric pressure
• Allergens (substances that provoke an allergic response such as pollen, molds or dust mites)

Secretions from the sinuses cause blockage of the nasal passages which causes coughing due to post nasal drip. Coughing may be severe, followed by gagging and even vomiting. It tends to be worse at night.

Here are the symptoms of a sinus infection

Often a sinus infection or sinusitis can be mistaken as a cold, since the symptoms are so much alike. Here are some of the symptoms of a sinus infection

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Headaches in the eyes, nose or cheek area
• Bad breath
• Green nasal discharge
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Cough
• Fever
• Sinus pressure

What can make a sinus Infection worse?

• Swimming
• Weather changes
• Contact with allergens
• Inhaled irritants
• Excessive consumption of dairy foods
• Consumption of refined wheat products
• Foods rich in sugar, colorants, flavourants, artificial flavourants and additives

Causes of sinusitis can be broadly classified

Sinusitis refers to an inflammation of the sinus passages caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Over 35 million people (children as well as adults) suffer from sinusitis annually.

1.  Inflammatory and infectious causes

2.  Structural or anatomical causes

3.  Behavioural or life-style related risks

4.  Inherited or acquired causes

5.  Environmental causes

Inflammatory and Infectious Causes

Viral, Bacterial and Fungal infections cause the delicate mucus membrane linings the nasal passages and sinus cavities to swell, and in some cases block the sinus openings called ostium. If this ostium (opening) is blocked, air and mucus secretions collect and cause pressure on the sinus cavity walls. This pressure is one of the main reasons why we have pain during sinusitis.

One needs to remember mucus is an excellent environment for bacteria and if the mucus is not cleared quickly, bacteria can infect the sinuses and in severe cases result in the formation of abscess.

• Viral infection - This type of sinus infection is the most common as it may be caused by millions of different strains and viruses. It is also known as an upper respiratory infection (cold or flu). This infection tends to last for a fort night with symptoms similar to a common cold, i.e. a runny nose, congestion or even a sore throat with accompanying post nasal drip and coughing. If left untreated a viral infection may develop into a bacterial infection such as chronic sinusitis. 
• As there is no cure for the common cold, one suffering from a sinus infection may often be treated with antibiotics in a bid to prevent the viral infection from progressing and developing into a bacteria infection.

• Bacterial infection - This type of infection is most often caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. These types of bacteria are commonly found in the respiratory tract of healthy people and will only result in a bacterial sinus infection when ones immune system is low or has been weakened. Other, less common sinusitis causing bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus and Branhamella catarhallis. Swimming in contaminated water may also result in a bacterial infection of the sinuses.

• Fungal Infection - Fungi are plant like organisms which are unable to produce their own food. They are usually found living harmlessly in our sinuses, however when the bodies resistance is low, they may become harmful. Their usual diet consists of dead, organic matter, however in certain instances fungi may feed on living organisms such as the delicate mucus membranes that line your sinus and nasal passages resulting in an inflammation of these membranes and a possible fungal infection. Aspergillus fumigatus  is one such fungus. 

Our moist, dark and warm nasal passages and sinus cavities provide fungi with the ideal environment in which to thrive and propagate (which can occur in the absence of food or light).
Fungus includes- molds, yeasts, mushrooms and puffballs.

There are two types of fungal infections: 

(1) Invasive fungal sinusitis is commonly caused by Aspergillus Fungus and is generally not caused by an allergen (minute particles which causes allergic reactions). It is usually found in patients whose immune systems are severely suppressed (which may be due to AIDS, excessive alcohol use or even diabetes mellitus).

Invasive fungal sinusitis can be differentiated from Non-invasive fungal sinusitis in that its symptoms include:

1. Nasal obstruction
2. One sided facial pain
3. Inability to move the eyes

The types of Invasive fungal sinusitis include:

Chronic indolent sinusitis

This occurs when fungi invades a persons body who is not suffering from an immune deficiency or severely weekend immune system If left untreated symptoms may include: -Chronic headaches-Facial Swelling

Fulminant sinusitis

This type of sinusitis occurs when fungi invades a persons body who has a severely deficient immune system.

In severe cases the fungi may destroy the sinuses as well as invade and cause harm to the bony cavities that protect the eyeball or brain

 (2) Noninvasive fungal sinusitis is commonly found in patients who suffer with asthma, nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis and allergic rhinitis and has the ability to manifest itself through tissue destruction.

The types of non invasive fungal sinusitis include:

 Allergic fungal sinusitis This occurs when a person experiences an allergic reaction to inhaled environmental fungi floating in the air.Symptoms may include:-Thick, fungal debris may develop in the sinus cavities.

Mycetoma fungal sinusitis This type of fungus may produce clumps of spores in the maxillary or sphenoid sinuses.

Symptoms may include:

-Sinus discomfort 

-Slight inflammation of the membrane linings in the sinus cavities.

• Allergies - Do you have swollen or itchy eyes, a runny nose, constant sneezing or even a sore throat. All these symptoms can be a sign that you have allergies. An allergic reaction occurring in the nasal passages and sinus cavities may result in swelling and inflammation of the mucus membranes that line these areas. This swelling and inflammation causes a blockage in the openings of the sinus cavities making it an ideal area in which fungi, bacteria or viruses can thrive and propagate.

Structural or Anatomical Causes

• Nasal Polyps - Nasal polyps occur when the connective tissue matrix that keeps the mucus membrane linings of the nose intact becomes damaged. This damaged lining (which is no longer attached to the underlying tissue) starts filling with mucus, causing it to sag and develop into a "nasal polyp". They are usually benign growths that are very resilient to surgery. 
• Any Inflammation or Allergy affecting the delicate mucus membranes of the nasal passages and sinus cavities will aggravate the nasal polyps causing them to swell more and block the opening to the sinuses thereby promoting the growth of bacteria, viruses or fungi. Nasal polyps are more prevalent in middle aged men and asthmatics and appear jelly-like and opaque to white in color.

• Deviated Septum - The septum is a large cartilaginous bone dividing the right and left nostrils. Certain injuries to this part, which may be due to a broken nose, playing water polo or any other injury to the nasal area can obstruct mucus drainage and breathing and therefore lead to sinusitis. An operation may however be performed to correct a deviated septum.

• Turbinates - The nasal passages contain bony projections called turbinates whose main function is to filter and warm the air that passes through these passages. When an irritation of the nasal passages occurs, these processes become inflamed and may swell causing an obstruction of mucus flow and if left untreated lead to a sinus infection.

• Concha Bullosa - This bubble or balloon shaped structure tends to develop on the middle turbinate and can exert pressure on the adjacent tissue thereby causing irritation, sinus pain and nasal blockage. This condition is usually symptom free and may be treated by endoscopic sinus surgery in severe cases.

Behavioural or Life-style related risks

• Frequent flying or scuba diving results in changing altitudes and can not only cause but also make current sinus infections worse. Different altitudes and air pressures result in an inflammation of the paranasal and frontal sinus cavities. In severe cases bleeding of the nasal mucus linings may also occur due to the inflammation.
• Frequent dental work may cause damage to the delicate sinus cavities which lie directly above the upper teeth.
• Over usage of nasal decongestants may cause initial drying out of the excess mucus, however the bodies normal reaction to these dry nasal passages is to produce more mucus thereby promoting the development of sinusitis.
• Swimming in chlorinated water may cause an irritation and inflammation of the mucus membrane linings making a person more susceptible to a bacterial invasion. The water also results in the cilia (hair like structures in the nasal passages responsible for transporting mucus) performing poorly thereby reducing mucus drainage.
• Pregnancy causes hormonal changes to occur in a women's body which may lead to an increase in mucus production and post nasal drip. If sinusitis does occur it is always best to consult a doctor on which medication you may use as not to harm the baby.

Birth control pills may cause similar sinusitis symptoms.

• When a person is hospitalized for a head injury a nasogastric tube is usually inserted into the nasal passages which may cause damage and inflammation to the delicate mucus membranes making these linings highly susceptible to sinusitis causing bacteria and viruses.
• A diet consisting of refined foods and dairy products such as milk or cheese causes an allergic reaction and swelling of the mucus membranes in certain sinus suffers which promotes the formulation of mucus in both persistent and chronic sinusitis.
• Certain medications may predispose one to sinusitis, and it is always best to consult your doctor to find out if any of the medications you are on increase the likelihood of you developing sinusitis.
• As one develops from childhood and adolescence to adulthood, the likelihood of them developing sinusitis increases. Children who have had their adenoids and tonsils removed are also more likely to succumb to sinusitis.
• Working around children may increase your risk and increase the severity of contracting sinusitis. This is because children often carry bacteria which tend to be resilient to conventional antibiotics. A doctor will need to be consulted and a culture of the mucus sent to laboratories for testing to ensure that you receive the best possible treatment for you sinusitis.
• Smoking results in the cilia (hair like structures responsible for effectively transporting mucus) to slow down. This slowing down results in post nasal drip and the mucus becoming thick and tenacious allowing bacteria to accumulate. Non-smokers who are exposed to second hand smoke may also experience a slowing down of cilia functioning.
  Smokers are also less likely than non-smokers to have a full recovery after sinus surgery due to progressive damage of the cilia and nasal linings of the nose and sinus cavities.
  Asthma and respiratory infections are more common in people who inhale second-hand smoke regularly.

Inherited or Acquired Causes

•  A deviated nasal septum, nasal bone or nasal polyp. It is very rare for children to develop nasal polyps and this is why it is recommended that your child visit a doctor if any nasal polyp growths are suspected as this may be a sign of cystic fibrosis or allergic fungal sinusitis.
• Tumors which obstruct the nasal openings impede the flow of mucus out of the sinus cavities. This trapped mucus becomes stagnant, thickens and causes an irritation to the delicate mucus membranes surrounding the sinus cavities.
  Our bodies normal response to this is to produce more mucus which in turn also becomes trapped in the sinus cavities due to the tumor blocking the opening and preventing it from flowing freely. This stagnant mucus provides the nutrients, warmth and darkness for bacteria to thrive in. which results in sinusitis.
• Cilia which are responsible for the efficient transport of mucus function poorly in asthma sufferers, therefore making it easier for a asthma suffer to develop sinusitis.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the stomach juice which is acidic in nature travels upwards to the esophagus, larynx (voice box) and pharynx (throat). This results in a person experiencing a sore, scratchy throat, coughing or hoarseness as well as post nasal drip with increased mucus production and phlegm.
• A weakened Immune systems (HIV or Chemotherapy) decreases the bodies ability to fight off any viral or bacterial infection.
• Kartagener's syndrome occurs due to a rare genetic birth defect were ones cilia become immobile and therefore cannot transport nasal mucus effectively.
• People suffering from cystic fibrosis tend to develop thick mucus secretions that affect the nose, respiratory tract and sinuses and have a higher incidence of nasal polyp formulation. The abnormally high salt concentration found in a cystic fibrosis sufferer's mucus provides an ideal environment in which bacterial may grow and therefore also contributes to one developing sinusitis.
• Non allergic rhinitis (or vasomotor rhinitis) which is commonly caused by cold climates, alcohol, perfumes or flowery scents and high or low humidity's may also predispose one to contracting a sinus infection.
• Severe asthmatic reaction to aspirin or other aspirin-like products may make one more likely to develop have chronic sinusitis.

Environmental Causes

• Dust contains dust mites which are one of the main culprits causing allergic rhinitis. If you are allergic to dust it is important that you remove any carpets which trap and hold dust. You should also ensure your house and furniture is spotless.
• When air pollution or smoke particles get trapped in the mucus linings of the nose, an allergic reaction, excoriation and an inflammation of the mucus membranes may occur, predisposing one to sinus infections. 
• Mold is also highly responsible for allergic rhinitis and if left untreated it may pre-dispose you to sinusitis. Any area in your home that is both warm and damp provides a conducive environment in which bacteria can grow and multiply. This includes electrical appliances. 
  
  Furry pets such as cats or dogs, plant pollens and cockroaches may also cause an allergic response and inflammation of the mucus membrane linings. This does not mean that one should find a new home for a much beloved pet however as long as your loved one visits a doggie grooming parlor regularly and if he/she has long hair, gets a trim. 

What causes sinusitis?

Fungi, Bacteria and viruses can be a cause of sinusitis.

Any infection of the nasal passages that cause it to swell can affect the opening of the sinuses. If the ostium (opening) is blocked, air and mucus secretions collect and cause pressure on the sinus cavity walls. This can also cause our cilia (hair like cells responsible for the removal of mucus) not to work properly and is the main reason why we have pain during sinusitis. Mucus is an excellent culture medium for bacteria and if the mucus is not cleared quickly, bacteria can infect the sinus and an abscess may develop.

If the nasal passages are swollen extending to the ostium of the sinuses, air cannot enter the cavity and a vacuum is created. This causes the mucus membranes to be “tugged” away from the bones they line and produce pain.

What predisposes someone to contracting sinusitis?

Any sinus condition that would interfere with and prevent the drainage and ventilation of ones sinuses such as

• Nasal polyps
• Allergic Rhinitis
• Over usage of nasal steroids
• Inflammation or edema of the delicate mucus membranes that line the nasal passages

Allergies and Colds May Lead to Sinus Infections

Sinusitis can be caused by colds, allergies, problems with your immune system or structural problems in the nasal cavities. While some people are enjoying the fall weather and the colorful leaves, others are suffering from cold and flu symptoms. When your face still hurts, your nose is still stuffy and you still have that nasty cough a week later, you could have something more serious - sinusitis. Bacterial sinusitis can often develop after an allergy attack or a cold because the excessive mucus production may cause stagnant fluid to build up in the sinuses, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If sinusitis is left untreated or undiagnosed, it can cause further complications with the nose, eyes or middle ear, lasting for months or even years.

Our Natural, Homeopathic Sinus Remedies each treat a wide range of causes and symptoms. 

MORE FREQUENTLY INDICATED HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Arsenicum (arsenic): People who need this remedy feel throbbing and burning pains in the sinuses. Their pains are aggravated by light, noise, movement, after midnight, and may be triggered by anxiety, exertion, and excitability. They may feel relief by lying quietly in a dark room with the head raised on pillows and exposed to cool air. Their teeth may feel long and painful. They may feel nausea and experience vomiting concurrent with their sinusitis. They tend to have a great thirst, but they tend to drink frequent sips, rather than gulps.

Belladonna (deadly nightshade): This remedy is effective for people whose head feels full, as if it could burst. The pain usually resides in the forehead or around the eyes. There is throbbing pain that is worse by jarring, touch, bending forward, lying flat, or motion of the eyes and is relieved by gradually applied pressure, sitting up, or bending the head backwards. Another characteristic symptoms of people who need this remedy is when the sinus pain appear strongly and rapidly but then disap pears temporarily, only to repeat the process of coming and going pain. The eyes are also sensitive to light and the face is flushed. They are apt to feel dizzy which becomes worse when stooping.

Hepar sulphur (Hahnemann's calcium sulphide): Rarely indicated at the beginning of a sinusitis condition, people who need Hepar sulphur begin sneezing and then develop sinusitis from the least exposure to cold air. Their nasal discharge is thick and yellow. The nostrils become very sore from the acrid discharge, and their nasal passages become sensitive to cold air. Concurrently, they may have a headache with a sense of a nail or a plug that is thrust into the head along with a boring or bursting pain. Their headache above the nose is worse from shaking the head, motion, riding in a car, stooping, moving the eyes, or simply from the weight of a hat, but is relieved by the firm pressure of a tight bandage. The scalp is so sensitive that simply combing the hair may be painful.

Kali bichromicum (potassium bichromate): The distinguishing feature of people with sinusitis who need this medicine is that they have a thick, stringy nasal discharge. They have extreme pain at the root of the nose that is better by applying pressure there. The bones and scalp feel sore. Dizziness and nausea when rising from sitting and the severe pain may lead to dimmed vi sion. The pains are worse by cold, light, noise, walking, stoop ing, and in the morning (especially on waking or at 9 am) or at night. They prefer to lie down in a darkened room and feel better by warmth, warm drinks, or overeating.

Mercurius (mercury): People who will benefit from this remedy feel as though their head was in a vise. The pains are worse in open air, from sleeping, and after eating and drinking. The pains are also aggravated by extremes of hot and cold temperature. The scalp and the nose become very sensitive to the touch. Their teeth feel long and painful, and they may salivate excessively. The nasal discharge is usually green and too thick to run. It is offensive smelling and acrid.

Pulsatilla (windflower): When the head pain is worse when lying down and in a warm room and is better in cool air, this medicine should be considered. The sinusitis may begin after being over heated. Stooping, sitting, rising from lying down, and eating can aggravate the head pain, which is often in the front part of the head and accompanied with digestive problems. They get some relief from slow walking in the open air or by wrapping the head tightly in a bandage. This condition is commonly experienced when the child is in school or the adult is at work. The nasal discharge is often thick and yellow or green.

Silicea: These children usually have a chronically stuffed nose. They have a sense as though their head would burst. The head pain tends to be worse in one eye, usually the right. It is aggravated by mental exertion (students tend to get sinusitis while studying for an exam). Cold air, moving the head, light or noise can also aggravate the head pain. It is relieved by wrapping the head warmly and tightly or by applying heat.

Spigella (pinkroot): People who develop sinusitis with a sharp pain that is worse on the left side may need this medicine. They tend to get sinusitis after exposure to cold or cold, wet weather. They feel pain from warmth or when they stoop or bend the head forward, and they feel some relief by cold applications or from washing with cold water.

DOSAGE: Take a dose of the 6^th  X/12^th X/or 30^th/200th potency every two hours during intense symptoms and every four hours during mild symptoms. Some type of relief is commonly observed after one dose. Consider changing homeopathic remedies if observable benefit is not attained within 24 hours.

Homeopathic Combination Remedies 

In addition to the remedies listed in this article, sinusitis sufferers can also obtain benefit from using one of the numerous homeopathic formula products which are available in most health food stores and an increasing number of pharmacies. Homeopathic formula products are mixtures of many of the above described remedies. These products may be useful when you don't know which individual remedy you need or if that individual remedy isn't immediately available.

Although sinusitis sufferers may feel like hiring a plumber to unplug their nose and drain their head, homeopathic medicines provide a basically safe and often effective alternative.