Chronic sinusitis is a condition in which the mucous membranes of the sinuses – the frontal sinuses, nasal sinuses, lower frontal sinuses and zygomatic sinuses – remain inflamed and swollen for long periods of time.
The sinuses are air sacs in the frontal bone and other parts of the facial skull, and open into the middle ear area. Chronic sinusitis often develops due to persistently inflamed mucous membranes, persistent blockage of the nasal cavity and recurrent infections.
The most common symptoms of chronic sinusitis may include:
Runny nose: Chronic inflammation causes the nasal cavity to constantly overproduce mucus, which can lead to a runny nose.
Facial pain: pressure and swelling due to inflammation of the sinuses can cause pain in the face, especially in the nose and forehead.
Discharge: purulent discharge from the nasal cavity or the back of the nasal cavity.
Bad breath: people with chronic sinusitis often complain of bad breath, as phlegm and infection can cause an unpleasant smell.
Facial swelling: swelling and inflammation of the facial cavities can cause swelling and pressure in the facial area.
Chronic sinusitis can vary in severity, and symptoms may be relieved or worsened over time.
Complications of the condition may include:
Recurrent infections: chronic inflammation makes the sinuses more prone to bacterial infections, which can cause recurrent infections.
Accumulated phlegm: Persistent swelling of the mucous membranes and phlegm can make it difficult for the phlegm in the sinuses to drain, which can cause further inflammation. Medicines in the form of drops or sprays can help.
Chronic headaches: the pain and discomfort caused by sinusitis can lead to chronic headaches in the long term.
Eye problems: the sinuses and the eyes are close together, so chronic inflammation can sometimes cause eye problems, such as eye pain or tearing.
The anatomy of sinusitis and sinuses is key to understanding and treating the disease. The sinuses and sinuses are respiratory structures located in the nasal cavity and are directly related to the development of chronic sinusitis.
The main characteristics of anatomical areas:
Nasal cavity:
The nasal cavity starts in the nostrils and extends towards the pharynx.
This anatomical area is the first point of air inhalation and exhalation. Here the nasal mucosa filters, dries and warms the air.
Sinuses (paranasal sinuses):
The paranasal sinuses or sinuses are cavities and air cavities located in different parts of the skull. The four main paranasal sinuses are.
Frontal sinus: Located in the frontal bone and connected to the top of the nose.
Nasal ethmoid sinus: Located in the nasal septum and communicates with the nasal cavity through the nasal passages.
Maxillary sinus: The largest of the maxillary sinuses and located below the upper dental arches.
Sphenoid sinus: Located at the back of the skull, behind the eye socket.
Mucosa:
The inner surface of the nasal cavity and sinuses is lined with mucous membrane. This mucous membrane produces nasal secretions, which are important for cleaning and moistening the air.
Openings (ostium):
There are openings at different points in the inside of the sinuses. These openings allow the free flow of mucus and air in the cavities.
When the inside of the sinuses are inflamed and swollen, such as in chronic sinusitis, the openings can become blocked, making it difficult for phlegm to drain and more prone to infection. This can lead to congestion in the nasal cavities and sinuses, causing the symptoms of the disease.
Understanding the anatomy of the nasal cavities and sinuses is important in diagnosing and treating chronic sinusitis, as it helps doctors identify the location of blockages and prescribe the right treatment for patients.
How can balms and essential oils help treat sinusitis?
Inhalation: you can drip essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil, into boiling water and inhale the vapour. Essential oils can relieve nasal congestion and make breathing easier.
Essential oil balms: Eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil and chamomile flower oil, for example, may be good options.
Massaging the face: light massages can help relieve the pain and pressure associated with sinusitis. Gently stroking or lightly massaging the sides of the face can help reduce tension and pain.
The natural herbal extracts and essential oils in PulmoFresh balm can help ease breathing, soothe coughs and relieve the unpleasant symptoms of colds.
PulmoFresh herbal balm is recommended for colds, coughs and cold symptoms!
Instructions for use
For massage, for rubbing in
Use 3-5 times a day, using a finger amount is recommended. The balm should be applied to the chest and back area, then thoroughly massaged and rubbed in. It is more effective before going to bed, as the essential oils released by the balm, when inhaled, promote a restful sleep
For inhalation
Add 1 teaspoon of PulmoFresh balm to half a litre of hot water and mix well. This will create a vapour which should be inhaled for about 20 minutes.
