Inflammation of the air cavities within the passages of the nose (Para nasal sinuses) is referred to as Sinusitis. Sinusitis is one of the more common conditions that can afflict people throughout their lives. Sinusitis commonly occurs when environmental pollens, irritants, chemicals, infections (viral, bacteria) irritate the nasal passages.

The Para nasal sinuses are air-filled cavities in the dense portions of the bones of the skull, which were formed to decrease the overall weight of the skull. These air filled cavities are formed essentially in four left and right pairs. The frontal sinuses are positioned behind the area of the forehead, while the maxillary sinuses are behind the cheeks. The sphenoid and ethmoid sinuses are found deeper in the skull behind the eyes and maxillary sinuses. Mucous secreting cells line the sinuses. The air gets into the sinuses through small openings in the bones that allow connection to the nasal passageways, called ostia. If any of these openings become blocked, air can't properly pass into the sinuses and likewise the mucous produced by the cells lining the sinuses can't drain out. 

The symptoms of Sinus Infection are headache, facial tenderness or pain, and fever Sinus infection can cause pain in the face, teeth, or head. Other common symptoms include cloudy, discolored nasal drainage, a feeling of nasal stuffiness, a sore throat, and a cough. Some people notice an increased sensitivity or headache when they lean forward. In allergic sinusitis other associated allergy symptoms of itching eyes and sneezing may be common.

 

X ray of Para nasal Sinuses are required for diagnosis of Sinusitis.

Sinusitis in Ayurveda is compared to “Dushta Pratishyaya”or “Peenasa”. Patient suffering with Sinusitis is treated with SNEHANAM (Oleation), SWEDANAM (Suddation), NASYAM (Nasal Insufflation),VAMANAM (Induced Emesis/ Vomiting), DHUMAPANAM(Medicated Smoking), VIRECHANAM (Purgation) etc. along with Shamana Chikitsa using herbal drugs. 

The cold weather and cold item consumption has to be avoided, Smoking and exposure to the pollution has to be avoided, Pranayama, The Breathing Exercises are to be followed regularly to prevent Sinusitis from recurring.