Chronic Maxillary Sinusitis


Sinusitis is a painful and often times aggravating condition caused by the blockage of bacteria and mucus in the sinus cavities due to the inflammation of the nasal passageways. There are two basic forms of sinusitis, acute sinusitis lasting seven to ten days, and chronic which can last up to 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis is more difficult to treat, and has more severe symptoms as well. In this article we are going to look at a specific type of chronic sinusitis, chronic maxillary sinusitis.

The sinuses are air pockets within the bones in the face. There are four sets:

  • Frontal sinuses: behind the forehead
  • Maxillary sinuses: behind the cheeks
  • Ethmoid sinuses: inner corners of the eyes
  • Sphenoid sinuses: behind the eyes

SYMPTOMS

Due to their large size, location and drainage pattern, the maxillary sinuses are the most susceptible to infection. A deviated septum will also make people more susceptible to maxillary sinusitis. There are several symptoms associated with chronic maxillary sinusitis, and while they may be similar to acute sinusitis it can become quite serious if it goes untreated. The symptoms include:

  • Clear, thin discharge
  • Postnasal drip
  • Cough/sore throat
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Pain in the upper jaw/teeth
  • Pressure in the eyes
  • Loss of smell and taste

Nasal discharge is more present with maxillary sinusitis, acute being a greenish-yellow discharge and chronic being a thin, clear discharge. Most patients experience postnasal drip, which can lead to a sore throat and halitosis. In severe cases of chronic sinusitis pain in the teeth and upper jaw will be felt, and is often confused with normal dental pain. The patient will become fatigued and the pressure will spread from the cheeks and mouth to the nose and eyes. A common symptom of chronic sinusitis is also the loss of the senses of taste and smell.

CAUSE

The most common cause of chronic maxillary sinusitis is an untreated case of acute maxillary sinusitis. It can also come on due to a cold or viral infection. As mentioned before, a deviated septum makes patients more susceptible and there is believed to be a link between proper oral hygiene and maxillary sinusitis. Because the gums and teeth lie so closely to the maxillary sinuses, a gum infection can easily spread to them.

PREVENTION/TREATMENT

There are several precautions that one can take to avoid chronic maxillary sinusitis. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and regular dentist visits can help detect an infection before it spreads to the maxillary sinuses. Drinking plenty of fluids and keeping a healthy diet can also help thin mucus, making it easier to drain. Of course, the surest way to keep from getting a chronic infection is to take proper care when diagnosed with an acute infection. Finishing any treatments, and taking care of yourself is the surest way to avoid a chronic infection.

Sinus Dynamics is a national compounding pharmacy specializing in the treatment of sinusitis through the use of cutting edge technology. We offer three different types of therapies to suit the needs of our patients. If you are suffering due to the symptoms of chronic maxillary sinusitis, please contact us now and we can set you on the path to recovery. You will be able to contact us through this website, or you can call 1-877-447-4276 and we will get you in contact with a friendly member of our staff. They will be able to assist you with any questions, or resolve any concerns, that you may have. We look forward to speaking with you soon!


 
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