New Delhi: The common cold may cause uncommon ailments if neglected, specialists warn. Most of us brush aside a common cold because we have always thought it is harmless. But specialists say it could lead to chronic sinusitis, if left untreated. It could also negatively impact vision or cause harm to any part of the brain.
There is a surge in cases of chronic sinusitis because of unchecked pollution. Chronic sinus may also be caused due to allergies, infections, virus, fungi, harmful medicines and certain nasal anomalies. The problem escalates during summers, when people beat the heat with chilled drinks.Further sinusitis is always on the rise due to bacteria and fungus in the atmosphere. Traffic pollution is also a big culprit. It is better to seek immediate medical attention when people suffer persistent cold or irritation in the throat. Even facial pain, nasal discharge, blockage, continuous dry cough, sneezing, headaches, running nose and change of voice are enough reasons to see a medical specialist for the treatment of sinusitis.
Fungal sinusitis, if left untreated could affect the vision and brain in the chronic stages. In a study to evaluate the best possible mode of treatment for sinusitis, a study was conducted with 88 patients. What worked well for sinusitis was a combination of anti-fungal tablets and steroid spray.
According to Ameet Kishore, Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospital, "Nose sinuses and lung are connected. And anything that affects the nose sinuses affects lung. Fungal sinusitis is higher on diabetic patients as compared to non-diabetic."
He also said that most patients suffering this condition snore in sleep. “The air passages behind the nose and throat end close when a person goes into deep sleep, resulting in reduced oxygen supply to lung, heart and brain. This could lead to snoring and people could find it difficult to breathe," he explained.
Therefore, if you have a persistent cold, it is not worth ignoring it.
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