Does your head feel heavy after catching a cold? Do you suppose the cold is to blame, especially since the runny nose hasn’t gone away? You may be right to some extent, the common cold is a risk factor for this condition, but because it may be the cause of sinus infection!
What is sinusitis (Sinus infection)?
It’s just a sinus infection. But what exactly are sinuses? There are four cavities in the head that are filled with air and linked by small channels that produce thin mucus that is expelled by the nose. This helps to keep the nose clean and bacteria-free. However, when the cavities get plugged and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause infection, resulting in sinusitis (sinus infection).
So, you will find that feeling your head is heavy is a common symptom.
Are there other symptoms?
In addition to a feeling of pressure, especially around the nose, eyes, forehead, and heaviness in the head, you may suffer from other symptoms, such as:
- Mucus running down the throat (postnasal drip).
- Thick yellow or green nasal secretions.
- Blocked nose.
- Headache and/or pain in your teeth or ears.
- Bad breath.
- Tired.
Causes of Sinus Infection
Most sinus infections occur when fluid builds up in the sinuses. It is true that colds and allergic rhinitis increase the risk of infection, but there are other factors as well, including:
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
- The presence of growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses, known as adenoids
- Weakened immune system or taking medications that weaken the immune system
Tips for Sinus Infection Treatment
There are several ways to treat sinusitis, depending on the severity of your sinusitis. These simple ways include:
- Putting warm compresses on the nose and forehead to help relieve sinus pressure.
- Use decongestant nasal sprays.
- Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water, but be careful not to get burned.
Or you can use some over-the-counter medications such as:
- Decongestants.
- Over-the-counter cold and allergy medications.
- Use Otosan Nasal Wash to wash the nose.
- Drink fluids.
If your sinusitis symptoms do not improve within 10 days, you may need:
- Antibiotics
- Oral or topical decongestants.
- Prescription steroid nasal sprays.
It may also help to get a free consultation from a doctor to prescribe the right treatment for you.