Infection of the sinuses, commonly referred to as sinusitis, can be caused by bacteria, virus, and fungi. Acute sinusitis is the most commonly reported condition which is caused by bacterial and viral infection. Fungal sinus infection occurs rarely in comparison to bacterial related sinusitis condition. However, as per recent studies conducted, it has been found that fungal sinus infection can lead to a chronic condition. Several strains of fungi are responsible for causing the condition, out of which the most common species are Aspergillus and Mucor. Previously, doctors were of the opinion that people who have a compromised immune system such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS patients were at a higher risk of developing chronic infections. Nevertheless, in the present day, fungal infections in the paranasal sinuses occur in many people who do not have any underlying health problems. The treatment of the same is done on the basis of the manifested symptoms and diagnostic report. The symptoms of this infection are more or less similar to other cases of sinus infections. Depending upon the overall health condition of the patient and the fungal strain, fungal sinus infection may cause mild discomfort to severe pain. Also, symptoms may vary according to the type of fungal infection―fungal ball, allergic fungal sinusitis, acute or chronic invasive fungal sinusitis. Some of the commonly noticeable symptoms of this fungal infection are:

• Headache and pain in the forehead
• Pain in the sinus cavities
• Blocked nasal passages
• Excessive mucus secretion
• Nasal discharge
• Prolonged sore throat
• Recurrent fever
• Problems in breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Increased weakness and fatigue

The signs and symptoms of these infections are often confused with common cold and other allergic reactions. Hence, in order to rule out other health conditions, the physician may conduct certain diagnostic procedures, like, X-ray imaging test and culturing secretions extracted from the sinuses. The therapeutic treatment depends on the patient's condition and severity of the infection. In case prompt recovery is not observed after administration of traditional medications like antibiotics for sinus infection, it is considered to be a fungal sinus infection. Surgery: The most preferred treatment for this condition is surgery. If treated only with medicines, the chances for recurrent onset of the infection are high. Hence, most doctors recommend a surgical procedure for effective treatment of recurrent and invasive fungal infection. In the surgery, the affected tissues and the fungus are removed along with cleaning and draining the sinuses. Anti Fungal Medication: In case the patient is not in a condition to undergo surgery, only then anti fungal drugs and medicines are prescribed. The doctor may also recommend usage of corticosteroids in specific dosage to minimize the risk of a recurrence. While using products for sinus wash or sinus irrigation, the patients should follow the safety guidelines. Self-care Tips: In most cases of sinus problems, positive response has been observed with the use of effective home remedy methods. For any type of sinus infections, it is important that the patient follows certain self-care tips such as steam inhalation, using a room humidifier, drinking lots of water, and applying warm compresses over the affected sinus area. Preventive Methods: There are certain methods which can be undertaken which form an inhospitable environment for the fungi to grow in and therefore prevent the onset of the condition. This can be undertaken with the help of avoiding foods that contain high amounts of sugar and grain, using organic coconut oil while cooking, consuming cod liver and fish oil, getting adequate Vitamin D, proper exercise, and plenty of rest. Since chronic fungal sinus infection mostly affects people with immunodeficient disorders, staying healthy and keeping the home free of molds and fungi are the best tips to prevent a recurrence. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.