Allergic Fungal Sinusitis Overview

Many medical professionals define sinusitis as the inflammation of the nasal and sinus cavities which can be caused by an infection, an allergy or immunodeficiency.

There are two main types of Sinusitis; however, there is no difference in symptoms, but only the duration that they last. The two types are

1) Acute - A sudden onset of symptoms that one may also experience during a flu or a cold such as runny, stuffy nose and facial pain that does not go away after 7-10 days. Acute sinusitis typically lasts 4 weeks or less.

2) Chronic - A condition characterized by sinus inflammation symptoms lasting 8 weeks or longer.

Sinusitis is a condition that can be triggered by a variety of factors such as:

Viral infections - In most cases, viral infections have the ability to weaken the cilia to a dangerous point, however, if the condition is left untreated, they may in fact become completely destroyed by the infection. If the cilia are weakened, they will be unable to eject any mucus from the nasal cavities, therefore, it will become increasingly difficult to get rid of the infection, thus causing a very unfortunate cycle of events.

Bacteria - The paranasal sinuses can become a great breeding ground for bacteria. This growth of bacteria may occur when the openings in the paranasal sinuses become closed off, therefore leaving the body unable to expel dirt and waste, which it usually does through the throat or when we blow our noses. This buildup ultimately renders the cilia useless and unable to perform its function, which eventually creates more swelling to the membranes and further blockage that will continue to take place.

Allergies - Atmospheric factors or incidents are mainly responsible for any allergies associated with sinusitis, both acute and chronic. But it is also possible to suffer an allergic reaction from food, fabric or different substances such as pollen. If the allergens are from environmental causes, then chances are that they can be alleviated by taking shots.

Allergic fungal sinusitis is theorized by health practitioners to be a reaction, which is allergic in nature, to certain types of environmental fungus, which is aerosolized. This condition seems to develop in people who have a compromised immune system, such as those people who are HIV positive or those with diabetes. Allergic fungal sinusitis, also known as AFS is a non-invasive disease, and accounts for an estimated 6-8% of all chronic sinusitis requiring surgical intervention.

There are a number of herbal remedies that one can look to for curing allergic fungal sinusitis. The main benefit of using herbal remedies is that they carry no side effects and that they're relieve is not temporary, but will last long.

Peppermint is a great weapon for fighting sinusitis. It has great soothing qualities that can greatly reduce the size of the swelling that causes sinusitis in the first place, and it can help reduce the excess mucus in the nasal cavities that causes runny noses and head pressure. Peppermint also is great for helping relieve pressure and that stuffed feeling the head. Peppermint is a very flexible herb because it can work its magic in almost any area of the body, including the head, chest, nose etc.

For a more soothing and relaxing alternative for relieving sinusitis symptoms, just make peppermint tea by adding it to water and steeping it for about 5 minutes. Everyone loves the taste of refreshing mint. One of the best ways of curing the symptoms of sinusitis is a good old cup of tomato tea. The anti inflammatory herbs and strong ingredients in tomatoes make them perfect for tackling sinusitis and its symptoms.