Originally published February 2 2006
Sinusitis affects 35 million Americans and still may go unnoticed by some
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) wants all Americans to be aware of chronic sinusitis, a disease that affects 35 million people in this country each year, and the academy offers a list of symptoms and signs, as well as treatment information, to speed sufferers toward recovery.
Each year 35 million Americans are affected by chronic sinusitis, making it one of the most diagnosed diseases in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).
Sinusitis occurs when there is an inflammation of one or more of the paranasal sinuses, the hollow cavities within the cheek bones found around the eyes and behind the nose.
"Sinusitis is very common in the winter and can last for months or years if inadequately treated," said Brian A. Smart, MD, FAAAAI, and Chair of the AAAAI's Rhinosinusitis Committee.
"It is more likely that people with other allergic diseases such as allergies or asthma will develop sinusitis."
-- Have other allergic diseases and are interested in learning sinusitis prevention methods.
An allergist/immunologist will also determine what triggers the symptoms, as well as other triggers that may be causing a sinus obstruction, recommendations on how to treat an infection, and if a visit with an ENT/Otolaryngologist is needed for consideration for surgery of the sinusitis.
According to the practice parameter The Diagnosis and Management of Sinusitis: A Practice Parameter Update, antibiotics should not be prescribed for 10 to 14 days, unless severe symptoms develop such as fever, facial pain or tenderness, or swelling around the eye.
An allergist/immunologist may also prescribe a medication to reduce blockage or to control allergies to help keep the sinus passages open.
This medicine may be a decongestant, a mucus-thinning medicine or a cortisone nasal spray.
Other treatments that can be helpful to control and reduce symptoms of sinusitis include breathing in hot moist air, applying hot packs and washing the nasal cavities with salt water.
The AAAAI is the largest professional medical specialty organization in the United States representing allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease.
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