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(HealthDay News) -- Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinus cavities, can be triggered by conditions ranging from allergies and the common cold, to other viral and bacterial infections.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases says sinusitis is typically classified as either acute, lasting for four weeks or less, or chronic, lasting for at least eight weeks but perhaps months or years. Allergies may exacerbate symptoms and cause acute sinusitis; chronic sinusitis often occurs in people with asthma.
Symptoms of sinusitis most often include headache, pain in your forehead or cheekbones, pain in your teeth or jaw, swollen eyelids, earaches or neck pain. Many people also have fever, stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, coughing and sore throat.
The NIAID notes that bacterial infections may be treated with antibiotics, while viral infections should clear up on their own over time. Over-the-counter decongestants may help reduce symptoms.
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This is a story from HealthDay, a service of ScoutNews, LLC.
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