An infection in one or more sinus cavities is medically described as sinusitis.

A sinus infection is caused by infection in air filled spaces in the bones of the nose area. They are also called paranasal sinuses- they can become inflamed when infected. Then the mucus membranes that cover the sinuses swell and inflict pain and pressure around the nose and eye area.

Viral infections can weaken the cilia to a serious stage. But if this condition is left not treated then it is possible that they may be ruined by the infection. This can happen when the cilium cannot push the mucus out of the nose. Then the virus stays in the cilia and in the sinus area.

Water can stay in the ears if it is not removed after any activity that uses water like, swimming or having a bath, and it sinks into the Eustachian tube. The Eustachian tube is tilted a bit and therefore the water will slide down, but, it usually just stays where it is. Humid and warm, moist conditions are a comfortable environment for bacteria, infections, and viruses to grow. An inflamed sinus cavity causes sinusitis. Ear infections can develop and this swelling stops any further draining. Ear infections can result in ear aches, headaches, and dizziness.

There is no official cure for sinusitis and that is why it can be hard to treat. Antibiotics do not fully cure sinusitis and sometimes symptoms return after long use. Decongestants and nasal sprays both temporarily relieve symptoms. But as they have side-effects, they should be used with care. Nosebleeds have been told of as a side effect to steroid nasal sprays.

Cataracts, diabetes, and thinning of the bones are also said to be long term side- effects to using nasal sprays. Rise in blood pressure and difficulty during sleep are also said to be side-effects to using decongestants. An easy alternative to treating inflamed sinuses is steam inhalation. This can also be use by chronic sufferers. Saline solutions can be used to relieve pain, and pressure which are caused by stuffed sinuses.

Rare cases result in endoscopic sinus surgery because of resistance to medication and treatment. The sinus passages are carefully examined by doctors; they use a small tube with a light and an endoscope. Then deciding on the test results, doctors will remove some tissue or polyps that might be obstacles. But they could either decide to make the sinuses bigger which allows draining.