Sinusitis comes in two different forms: the first is acute sinusitis, which is generally a bacteria-related condition that can be treated with antibiotics if problems persist. Thus type of sinusitis usually follows a cold, when bacteria are rife within the nasal passages. Acute sinusitis is normally short-lived.

Chronic sinusitis, on the other hand, is where symptoms persist for over twelve weeks. This type of sinusitis is often associated with allergies, weather conditions, problems with the immune system, cigarette smoke, alcohol, and chlorine. Chronic sinusitis can also be treated with antibiotics or steroids, but in more severe cases may require surgery.

Amongst other allergies, one of the things that can cause and exacerbate sinusitis is a food allergy or intolerance.

Identifiable traits of sinusitis include:

Facial pressure (particularly around the nose, eyes and head)
Nasal blockage
Runny nasal discharge
Loss of smell
Feverishness
Breathing difficulties

Amongst other allergies, one of the things that can cause and exacerbate sinusitis is a food allergy or intolerance. Certain foods are associated with this disorder and it is recommended that sufferers of sinusitis have tests for allergies in order to eliminate these foods from their daily diet. Foods that are associated with this disorder include: milk, cheese and other dairy products; eggs; foods containing simple sugars such as pastries; wheat and corn.

Dr Greene, a member of the Clinical Faculty at the Stanford University School of medicine, states that food allergies can be diagnosed by eliminating certain foods one by one from the diet and monitoring the symptoms to see whether they improve once a certain food has been removed from the diet. The food can then be reintroduced as a way of double-checking. If the symptoms improved upon elimination of the food, and then recur once the food has been reintroduced to the diet, the chances are you’ve identified the culprit – or, at least, one of them. The allergies, of course, can also be identified by seeking professional advice and having blood tests.

It is also recommended that sinusitis sufferers reduce their salt intake and try and stick to a balanced diet, rich is fruit, vegetables and Vitamin A, which helps to maintain mucous membranes.

Sources:
1. Food Allergies
2. Typical Symptoms of Sinusitis
3. Allergy and Asthma in the Southwestern United States
4. What is Sinusitis?
5. Sinusitis
6. ASK THE HERBALIST: Sinusitis
7. Sinus Congestion

Publish date: 10/05/03