About Sinusitis & hearing problems

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses - the small, bone-shaped cavities that connect to the nose. When they swell, mucous accumulates triggering sinusitis. Causes can include bacterial, fungal or viral infections as well as an enlargement of one's turbinates (bumps on the inside walls of your nasal cavity). Irritants, such as smoke, chlorine or dust particles, can cause blockage in your sinuses due to swelling. Allergies may also contribute; when the inflammation causes a build-up of mucous it creates conditions favorable for allergies developing.

Sinusitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including headache, pain in the face and eye area, watery eyes, coughing at night, fever and nasal congestion. In addition to these general symptoms, hearing (or ears) may also be affected. This is because the infection can reduce air flow into the Eustachian tube (the canal that connects the ear to the nasopharynx), resulting in a feeling of cotton wool inside your ears- like they are "closed". Tinnitus, or ringing in your ears, can also be a symptom of sinusitis.

Sinusitis can be treated with medications. Depending on the severity, different remedies may be prescribed by a doctor. The following is a list of some common treatments that help relieve sinus congestion:

• Antibiotics if there's evidence of an infection (only if required).
• Nasal sprays to reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids to reduce swelling and redness.
• Painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease discomfort.
• Antihistamines (if sinuses are triggered by allergies)