Sinusitis
Sinusitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the sinuses (cavities within the cheek bones found around the eyes and behind the nose). The main functions of these sinuses are warm, moisten and filter the air in the nasal cavity. They also play an important role in our ability to vocalize certain sounds.
Sinusitis, which is common in winter months, can last for months or years if not treated properly. Sinusitis can affect the nose, eyes or middle ear, and may be manifested by a runny nose, thick, color, post-nasal drip of bad taste, cough, head congestion and an accompanying headache. The symptoms may include stuffy nose, a feeling of facial swelling, toothache, constant tiredness and, occasionally, fever.
[...] While colds are most common cause of acute sinusitis, those with allergies may also be predisposed to sinusitis. Allergies can trigger inflammation of the sinuses and nasal mucous linings. This inflammation prevents the sinus cavities are cleaned of bacteria, increasing their chances of developing secondary bacterial sinusitis. If you have allergies, your doctor may prescribe appropriate medications to control their symptoms, thereby reducing the risk of developing an infection. People with sinus problems and allergies should avoid environmental irritants such as smoke snuff and strong chemical odors, which can increase the symptoms. [...]