Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the sinus cavities. Inflammation of the sinuses could be due to an allergy, an infection, or ongoing exposure to an irritant, such as pollution or smoke. Symptoms can include a headache or pressure in the area of the sinuses, a stuffy nose, achy teeth, an odor coming from the nose, postnasal drip, cough, sore throat, laryngitis, lightheadedness, constant low fever, and thick, yellow to green nasal drainage.
The best way to identify a sinus infection is with a sinus CT scan, although sinus x-rays are a decent alternative. A sinus CT scan will also identify if any of the openings that drain your sinuses are blocked. If your symptoms are due to sinusitis, they will last as long as the inflammation continues. Please read our Sinusitis MedFact at http://www.nationaljewish.org/medfacts/sin.html for more information about ways to clear up the inflammation. Check with your doctor to see which of these would work best for you.
The most common cause of sinusitis is an infection, especially when the mucus is green. Sinus infections can be difficult to treat since they respond slowly. When any of the openings that drain your sinuses are blocked it will take longer to clear a sinus infection. If a viral infection is the cause it
A saline nasal wash may help. See:
http://www.nationaljewish.org/medfacts/nasal.html
Nasal Wash Treatment
Also see, from American Dental Assoc:
http://www.ada.org/public/topics/bad_breath.asp
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
and
http://www.netwrite-publish.com/health/hl4.htm
How To Prevent Tonsil Stones