What is sinusitis​?

Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces within the bones between your eyes, behind your cheekbones, and in your forehead. They make mucus, which keeps the inside of your nose moist. That, in turn, helps protect against dust, allergens, and pollutants.

Healthy sinuses are filled with air. But when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.

Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include:

• The common cold
• Allergic rhinitis, which is swelling of the lining of the nose caused by allergens
• Small growths in the lining of the nose called nasal polyps
• A deviated septum, which is a shift in the nasal cavity

 Ayurveda View of sinusitis

In Ayurveda, acute sinusitis is due to aggravated kapha and vata in the region above the clavicle (collar bone). Treatment modalities involve ayurvedic detoxification (panchakarma), external therapies, internal medications, diet and lifestyle modifications. Nasya plays a very important role in treating sinusitis.

 What is the cause of sinusitis?

• Spinal injury
• Overweight
• Irregular exercises
• Herniated disk
• Degenerative disc disease
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Sleeping on a soft mattress
• Wearing high heels

  Symptoms of sinusitis

• Neck or jaw pain.
• Shoulder or arm pain.
• A fast heartbeat.
• Shortness of breath when you are physically active.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Sweating.
• Fatigue.

 Ayurvedic Treatment of sinusitis

Ayurvedic therapies like Dhanyamla Dhara, Abhyanga Sweden, Pathrapotali Sweden (Elakizhi), Sarvangadhara (Pizhichil), Kati Vasti, Vasti (the most important procedure in Ayurveda for curing Sciatica permanently), etc., are carried out as per the necessity and condition. These therapies are directed towards relieving the inflammation and underlying causes of Sciatica; relieving the spasms and nerve compressions in the affected area, and strengthening and nourishing the entire spine & supporting tissues. Usually, the treatment period is 4 – 5 weeks according to the severity of the disease.

 Home Remedies for sinusitis

If you have a simple sinus infection, your doctor may recommend you use a decongestant and saline nasal washes. You shouldn’t use an over-the-counter decongestant for more than 3 days, though, because it can make you more congested.

If your doctor gives you antibiotics, you’ll probably take them for 10 to 14 days. The symptoms usually disappear with treatment.

Warm, moist air may help if you have chronic sinusitis. You can use a vaporizer, or you can inhale steam from a pan of warm water. Make sure the water isn’t too hot.

There are some other things you can do yourself to help with chronic sinusitis:

• Warm compresses can ease pain in the nose and sinuses.
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep mucus thin.
• Saline nose drops are safe to use at home.
• Over-the-counter decongestant drops or sprays can help. Don’t take them longer than recommended.