Sinusitis is an infection in some part of the sinuses. A few of the symptoms include sore throat, fever, pain and pressure, and a stuffed nasal passage. As if these symptoms are not bothersome enough, some people also experience hearing loss.
Sinusitis is an infection in some part of the sinuses. A few of the symptoms associated with sinusitis are sore throat, fever, facial soreness, dizziness, pain and pressure on your cheeks and forehead, and a stuffed nasal passage. As if these symptoms are not bothersome enough, some people also experience hearing loss.
What Happen When You Have Sinusitis
When you have an infection in your sinuses, they become swollen and inflamed. All the empty spaces that can be found in your bones become inflamed, and your glands begin developing more mucus than usual. All the swelling and inflammation makes it difficult to drain the mucus, which contributes to the pressure and stuffy feelings. Breathing can be tough when you are suffering from a sinus infection, and people may overmedicate before consulting with a doctor.
Your sinuses are located close to your ear canal, and when they become congested, swollen, and clogged, these issues can affect your ear’s hearing function. Your Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle of your ear to your throat, will become clogged, preventing fluid from moving through. Some symptoms to watch out for are:
Pain in the eardrum.
Hearing loss.
Feeling of pressure on your eardrum.
Hearing sounding like you are going through a tunnel or underwater.
Protect Your Hearing
If these symptoms sound familiar, protect your hearing and see a doctor right away. A doctor will be able to give you an appropriate diagnosis of sinusitis and perform x-rays on your nasal cavities. The doctor may analyze the fluid in your ear to determine the type of infection you have.
Your physician may recommend that you visit an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. This is a physician who specializes in sinusitis and related diseases. They have the experience necessary to properly evaluate your symptoms. If you are experiencing hearing loss, it is important to see a physician right away who can prevent the problem from progressing.
How to Cope
Addressing your concerns with an ENT specialist is important. There are also things you can do at home to help you cope. A few include:
Nasal Sprays and Humidifies. Moisture can be a huge relief from sinus symptom. Nasal sprays or a warm washcloth held to your face can work to relieve the pressure. Also adding a humidifier to your bedroom at night will bring some extra moisture to the air and allow you to get some rest.
Head Position. Keep your head upright. Bending forward or leaning with your head down will cause all the pressure to move to your head, making the problem worse. Avoid these types of movements if possible.
Extreme Temperatures. A very hot or cold day can make your sinus problems worse. If possible, stay indoors in these conditions until your symptoms start to alleviate.
Avoid Air Travel. This one may be difficult since your plans may already be in place. Try to avoid plane rides as this will only make the pressure in your sinuses worse. If you have to fly, try using nasal spray or taking a decongestant about 30 minutes prior to takeoff.
Sinusitis is a painful infection, and there’s no quick end. Even antibiotics takes time to heal the sinuses once they’ve become infected. That’s why it’s important to seek a physician’s advice right away if you notice any symptoms related to hearing loss. Their help, plus some at home coping methods, will put you on the road to recovery.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]