Tests for Chronic Sinusitis due to Allergies

Chronic sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses. The mucous membranes are swollen, thereby inhibiting the mucous outpour. Sinuses are the passages, seen surrounding the throat and nose. The inflammation blocks the sinus cavities, thereby encouraging fluid build-up. Persistent headaches and face tenderness with resulting breathing difficulty (through the nose) is seen. A greenish nasal discharge occurs. The most common causative factors include infection of the nose, pharynx, throat and sinus or the upper respiratory tract.

A crooked nasal septum or allergies also contribute. Fungal infections or mold growth in the sinus proves to be yet another culprit. Recurrence of acute sinusitis or persistence of the condition for more than 3 months causes chronic sinusitis. Though fever is absent, the other symptoms are similar to acute sinusitis. Nasal congestion, headache, ear ache, sore throat, fatigue, nausea, tooth ache, yellowish green discharge, bad breath, jaw pain, difficulty in nasal breathing and facial pain.

Chronic sinusitis is similar to allergy or cold and hence the following diagnostic procedures help in determining chronic sinusitis. A light-fitted endoscope which is fiber optic is utilized to monitor the sinuses. This is referred to as nasal endoscopy. Tissue culture of the sinus and nasal lining helps in diagnosing chronic sinusitis. Computerized Topography aids by providing images of the sinus.

An allergy test is cost effective and simple. It is done at a rapid pace and is used to identify the allergy causing allergen. Common causes include fractured face bone, bacterial, viral or fungal infection of the upper respiratory tract, nasal polyps causing obstruction, mold in the nasal cavity, complications, such as, HIV, cystic fibrosis and immunodeficiency diseases, lack of cytokines, airborne fungus and deviated septum. Complications associated with chronic sinusitis are loss of vision and meningitis.

Corticosteroids are preferred as an intervention technique, either orally or intravenously. This helps in reduction of inflammation of the sinuses. Decongestants, nasal sprays or antihistamines help in sinus drainage. An antibiotic course for a month to three months is prescribed. Saline nasal sprays help in removing the dried mucus. Immunotherapy helps in alleviating the condition, by triggering antibodies, which in turn inhibits the allergens. Endoscopic sinus surgery is another option. Humidifiers at home are beneficial in drainage of the mucus from the sinus. A polyp or bone causing the blockage is removed by tissue removal or shaving of a bone. Narrow sinus orifices can be widened to initiate mucus drainage.