Sinus Infections: What You Need To Know!

As the season moves forward, and the first batch of illnesses past us; I thought it appropriate to reiterate a earlier thread on "What's In Your Nose:  The Mutant Down Under," discussing how sinus infections originate, and what precipitates that infectious process. 

Colds, and Flus are initiated by viruses, and because of this, once we come in contact with a virus a whole cascade of events begins!  Starting with, the inflammation.  Inflammation of the sinus cavities causes the swelling and  an increase in mucous production.  If you are like me, and have a deviated septum, or physiologically, designed for poor drainage, then the mucous stays  in the sinus cavities where they start to breed bacteria.  Once the breeding begins, changes take place in the mucous from the the sinuses, in the form of colors.  What the colors can mean:

• Clear:  Normal state of health
• Pale Yellow:  Infectious process beginning, an indication that the immune system is kicking in to fight off this infection.
• Green:  Green mucus is often thick and causes congestion and pressure, and is a sign that an infection is present. This can cause more discomfort as thick mucus is often the primary cause of sinus headaches.
• Brown or Rust Colored:  This is a sign that the sinuses are engorged and blood mingles with the mucous.  Smokers will complain of more brown and rust colored findings, because smoking causes more engorgement due to increased irritation of the sinus linings. 

Here is a video on how to use the Neti Pot.  I use a squeeze bottle, and have been using it with saline packets and warm tap water for over three years.  It's been the best thing an Ears, Nose, and Throat Surgeon suggested to me that many years ago.  I hope this information will be a good guide, and information source, so that you can discuss it more easily with you primary doctor, and if it will be the right fit for you.  Stay well!




Source of Video:  "Himilayan Institute"

Examiner.com: Writer/Nurse:  Kim Chartrand wrote: "The Benefits of Nasal Irrigation"