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You've been feeling under the weather lately but can't quite put your finger on what's wrong. Could it be sinusitis? This common condition affects many each year, and it's often mistaken for a simple cold. Knowing the signs could save you a lot of discomfort and get you on the path to recovery sooner.
Overview of Sinusitis
Sinusitis can be acute or chronic, and it's critical to know the signs. Acute sinusitis typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain. In contrast, chronic sinusitis can be rather stubborn, persistently plaguing your sinuses for a long time even with treatment.
Common Symptoms
When it comes to identifying sinusitis, there are several key symptoms you should be aware of. These symptoms are often shared with other conditions, such as the common cold, which may lead to confusion. By gaining an understanding of the symptoms, you can adequately recognize if you're dealing with a bout of sinusitis.
Facial Pain and Pressure
You'll typically experience facial pain and pressure with sinusitis. This discomfort stems from the inflammation and swelling in your sinuses due to blockage. The specific areas affected may include your forehead, between your eyes, and your cheekbones. This type of facial pain can feel like a dull, persistent ache, which might increase when you bend over or wake up first thing in the morning. It's important to note that facial pain isn't exclusive to sinusitis; it may signal other health issues as well.
Nasal Congestion
Another telltale sign of sinusitis is nasal congestion. You might feel like your nose is blocked, and you may struggle to breathe through it. This symptom happens when your inflamed sinuses cause mucus to accumulate, blocking your nasal passages. Although nasal congestion is uncomfortable, it can also exacerbate other sinusitis symptoms by leading to increased facial pressure.
Nasal Discharge
In addition to nasal congestion, nasal discharge is another prominent symptom of sinusitis. This isn't just a typical runny nose — the discharge due to sinusitis is usually thick and can range in color from green to yellow. The color and consistency can aid in the diagnosis of an underlying infection — clear and thin mucus tends to point towards allergy or cold, while thicker, colored mucus often indicates a sinus infection.
Looking out for these symptoms is essential in identifying sinusitis earlier and seeking appropriate treatment. Contact a sinus doctor to learn more.
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