Sinusitis – what to do if they keep bothering you
They say a cold lasts 14 days, whether treated or untreated. But what if your nasal congestion persists longer? Plus, you still have headaches and general malaise. You might not even realize your body is fighting acute inflammation. If left untreated, sinusitis can progress to a much more severe, chronic form.
Can chronic sinusitis be effectively treated when medications don't work? It's definitely worth trying sinus therapy, performed by a specialized physiotherapist.
Let's start from the beginning - what are sinuses?
If you're asking this question? You certainly haven't had sinus disease. Sinuses are cavities located within the skull, specifically within the facial bones. They are filled with air, lined with a thin mucous membrane, and connected to the nasal cavity. The sinuses are divided into maxillary, frontal, sphenoid, lacrimal, and ethmoid sinuses. The sinuses perform very important functions. They are responsible for, among other things, protecting the brain and regulating temperature within the skull, but also for receiving olfactory stimuli and creating speech intonation.
How does sinusitis occur?
The sinus mucosa, like the nasal mucosa, possesses a self-cleaning mucociliary mechanism. It produces large amounts of mucous secretion, which moisturizes the epithelium and, as it moves through the nose and throat via cilia, traps impurities and microorganisms. During a respiratory infection, the nasal mucosa swells, blocking the sinus openings. This retained secretion promotes the growth of bacteria, causing inflammation. This pressure simultaneously presses on the sinus walls and causes excruciating pain. A similar situation occurs with allergic rhinitis or a deviated nasal septum. This is the simplest description of the mechanism of sinusitis.
Sinus Therapy – Worth a Try
How to treat sinuses?
If the inflammation is caused by bacteria, an ENT specialist will decide on antibiotic therapy. This fact is obvious to most of us and could essentially end the topic of sinus treatment. However, not entirely. Sinus therapy, performed using manual techniques that target key structures for proper sinus drainage, is rarely discussed. Since this sounds somewhat puzzling, Magda Rybak, M.A., a physiotherapist and massage therapist, will provide an explanation
What is sinus therapy?
We invite people who have problems with nasal congestion, recurring sinusitis, headaches that worsen when bending over, and colds to sinus therapy
The manual technique of sinus treatment begins with relaxing the cervical spine through a gentle massage of the occipital region and the spinous processes, but also using trigger points on the suboccipital muscles.
Next, we perform manual facial drainage. This is the most enjoyable part of the entire treatment, involving circular movements that push lymph toward the subclavicular lymph nodes.
This is followed by facial grading, a technique derived from the pino method and clavitherapy, which involves the stimulation of a relatively large number of stimuli in a relatively short time, which in turn causes the contraction of blood vessels and the stimulation of local hyperemia.
Finally, manual mobilization of the nasal cavity, i.e., the entrance to the maxillary sinuses, is performed. This is to create as much breathing space as possible and ensure optimal air circulation, the lack of which contributes to persistent inflammation.
What else helps with sinuses?
Additionally, complementary manual sinus therapy procedures may include:
- IR radiation, commonly known as Sollux, which provides pleasant warmth and relaxation and helps to get rid of secretions
- high-energy laser in the area of the frontal and maxillary sinuses, which has a drying effect
- a low-energy laser that also works from the inside to dry
Fever is a contraindication to treatment. We also do not perform therapy on pregnant women.
Magda Rybak, M.A. , is an experienced physiotherapist and massage technician. At Luxmed Medical Center, she provides treatments such as sinus therapy, trigger point therapy, pinotherapy, and deep tissue massage.
To schedule a treatment, you'll need a referral. This can be provided by a physiotherapist or doctor.
You can sign up for a consultation with a physiotherapist online.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, often associated with infection, allergy, or obstructed drainage. It can cause pain and a feeling of distention in the facial area.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
Symptoms of sinusitis may include a stuffy nose, runny nose, postnasal drip, headache, facial pain, feeling of pressure, decreased sense of smell, cough, and general weakness.
Can sinusitis cause headaches?
Yes. Sinusitis can cause headaches and a feeling of pressure in the forehead, cheeks, bridge of the nose, or behind the eyes. The pain may worsen when you tilt your head.
How long does sinusitis last?
Acute sinusitis usually lasts for several weeks and often develops after a viral infection. If symptoms persist, recur, or worsen, it's worth consulting a doctor.
Does sinusitis require antibiotics?
Not always. Most acute sinus infections are viral in origin and require symptomatic treatment. Antibiotics may be necessary if a bacterial infection is suspected, at the discretion of the physician.
How is sinusitis treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. It may include irrigation, nasal saline rinses, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, decongestants, or other medications recommended by your doctor.
Can sinusitis be prevented?
The risk of sinusitis can be reduced by treating infections and allergies, humidifying the air, maintaining nasal hygiene, avoiding tobacco smoke, adequate hydration, and strengthening the immune system.
When should you see a doctor for sinusitis?
It is worth seeing a doctor if symptoms last more than 10 days, worsen after initial improvement, high fever, severe facial pain, swelling around the eyes, vision problems, or recurrent infections occur.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.