In Ayurveda, the most common cause of sinusitis is an aggravation of Kapha. Sinusitis is part of a larger problem, characterized by accumulation of water (lymphatic fluid) in the body.
This congestion and accumulation of kapha begins in the gastrointestinal tract. When the body’s kapha dosha increases sufficiently, it will start to flow in one direction. The direction of this flow is up: from the gastrointestinal tract toward the ears, nose and throat.
Because the sinuses are part of the nose system, they become affected as well.
In sinusitis, Kapha aggravation leads to an excessive accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the sinuses and gets retained in the nasal mucosa.
This retained fluid leads to the congestion of the mucosa. As the mucosa congests, it expands and leads to a narrowing of the sinus cavity. This blocks the opening between the nose and the sinus, leading to even more accumulation.
If the problem does not get resolved, the immune system of the nasal membrane will attempt to expel the excess fluid. However, the immune system becomes confused and does not know how to handle the situation. This inappropriate response from the immune system contributes to the progression of sinusitis.
The accumulated fluid is sweet and acidic. Bacteria and fungi like to grow in sweet and acidic environments.
As sinusitis progresses without treatment, it can lead to further consequences. One of these consequences is the development of nasal polyps.
Nasal polyps can develop months or years after the onset of sinusitis.
What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are the result of the accumulation of Kapha in the nasal passage.
As Kapha accumulates in the nasal mucosa, certain areas of the mucosa may enlarge more than others. The parts that enlarge more are the nasal polyps.
The nasal polyp contains mucus and lymphatic fluid.