Saturday, April 12, 2014

What Is Allergic Fungal Sinusitis And How Does It Affect You?

Allergic fungal sinusitis refers to an allergic reaction triggered by fungi present in the patient's atmosphere, which results in the formation and excessive discharge of mucus and blockage of the nasal passages, due to the inflammation of the epithelial tissue lining the sinus cavities. Allergies are a very common reason for the onset of sinusitis and all its associated symptoms, which include -
* Nasal congestion - The lining of the nasal passages and sinus cavities swells and blocks them, allowing for the accumulation of mucus in the cavities and consequently allowing the breeding and growth of bacteria and fungi, which can cause infections and other associated complications.
* Headache - The accumulated mucus exerts pressure on the nerves near the forehead, adding weight and pressure to the face.

* Yellowish-green mucus - A common complaint among all sinusitis patients, sometimes this nasal discharge may contain blood, requiring immediate medical attention to locate and seal any ruptured nasal blood vessel.
* Facial Swelling - Accumulation of mucus in the lower sinuses results in puffiness around the eyes and the cheeks.
* Fatigue - Impaired breathing leads to lower levels of oxygen in the body, thus lowering stamina considerably.
* Impaired vision - Accumulated mucus also exerts pressure on the optic cavities and optic nerves, thus hindering sight.
* Halitosis, a.k.a. bad breath - The bacterial/fungal accumulation can lead to tissue degeneration and consequent malodorous breath.
Sinusitis falls into two major categories according to the duration and intensity of the symptoms. These two types of sinusitis are -
* Acute sinusitis - Acute sinusitis is defined by a sudden onset of the aforementioned symptoms, which are similar to those of a flu or a cold. Acute sinusitis generally lasts up to a month.
* Chronic sinusitis - Chronic sinusitis is a much more serious condition, characterized by sinusitis symptoms lasting for more than two months.
Sinusitis can be triggered because of a lot of different factors, such as -
* Allergies - Sinusitis, whether acute or chronic, can be the result of an allergic reaction to allergens. These allergens, such as pollen, fabric, foods, or any particular substance, vary from person to person and also have the capability to cause the onset of sinusitis symptoms as well. In such a case, relief is possible for the symptoms incurred by taking the required injections.
* Infections - Infections can be very bad since they are capable of seriously weakening the tissue lining the sinus cavity, to the point where it is completely destroyed, if not treated timely. The weakening tissue will lose its ability to secrete and regulate the mucus in the affected sinus cavities, thereby making it even more difficult to alleviate the infection itself.
There are many cures available for this condition which can be used to effectively treat both types of sinusitis by relieving the symptoms it entails. Along with over the counter medication, there are also a number of affordable natural alternatives to treat this condition effectively.




Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7779104

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