Many experience a sinus infection. In fact, research says sinusitis affects around 35 million Americans every year. People with structural problems on the nose, nose swelling, nasal polyps, blocked nose drainage ducts, and immune system deficiencies are more prone to sinusitis.
Sinusitis is a health condition wherein the sinus lining experiences swelling or inflammation. Sinuses are four spaces or cavities linked by slim channels located in the head. Moreover, the sinuses produce thin mucus, which is expelled through the nasal passages. This drainage assists in keeping the nose free of bacteria and makes it clean.
The sinuses, which are usually stuffed with air, can become clogged and full of fluid. It causes bacteria to develop, leading to a sinus infection, also known as bacterial sinusitis. In some instances, a sinus infection is also called rhinosinusitis because “rhino” means “nose.”
Sinus infection has several other terms or types, such as acute sinusitis, which typically begins with symptoms similar to the common cold. Among those are stuffy nose, facial pain, and runny nose. Another type of sinusitis that lasts typically for 4 to 12 weeks is the subacute sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis is another one that lasts for 12 weeks or more, while recurrent sinusitis occurs many times annually.
Post-Nasal Drip
Formerly known as post-nasal drip syndrome, this health condition is typically connected to nose and sinus issues such as a sinus infection. It is the sensation of mucus secretions traveling down behind the throat and frequently resulting in coughs. Moreover, it’s natural to swallow a bit of the mucus produced by the sinuses and nose without realizing it. However, post-nasal drip could occur if the mucus thickens or when the mucus is more than usual.
Aside from a typical sinus infection, a person with acute sinusitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyps, and rhinitis also experiences post-nasal drip. On the other hand, a person might have upper airway cough syndrome if they experience a post-nasal drip, a persistent cough, and strange throat sensations.
In addition, post-nasal drip alone won’t determine if a person has a sinus infection. It is because this symptom can also be due to humidity and changes in temperature, which impact the thickness or amount of mucus in the throat and nose. Another reason for having a post-nasal drip is the cold weather, so make sure not to be confused.
