Sinusitis…

is an infection of the lining of the sinuses near the nose. It may cause pain and too much mucus production.

 

Sinusitis

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. The sinuses are a connected system of hollow cavities in the skull above and below the eyes.

This condition most often occurs following a cold or allergy flair-up when the nasal passages can become inflamed, blocking the opening of the sinuses.

When mucus drainage is blocked, bacteria can start to grow. This can lead to a sinus infection (called sinusitis).

types of Sinusitis:

ACUTE: symptoms last less than four weeks and get better with correct care.

SUBACUTE: symptoms initially do not get better with treatment, but eventually get better after four to eight weeks.

CHRONIC: symptoms occur often with repeated or poorly treated acute infections. Symptoms last eight weeks or longer.

RECURRENT: Three or more episodes of acute sinusitis in one year is considered recurrent.

What can cause sinusitis?

• Cold, flu, pneumonia
• Allergies
• Abnormalities of the nose structure
• Enlarged adenoids
• Swimming and Diving
• Nose injuries
• Tooth infections
• Foreign objects stuck in the nose
• Secondhand smoke

Diagnosis & Treatment of Sinusitis

Sinusitis symptoms

Symptoms can depend on your age. The most common symptoms for adults are:

• Runny nose or cold symptoms lasting longer than 7 to 10 days
• Nasal drip into the throat
• Headaches
• Facial pain
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Swelling around the eyes, especially in the mornings
• Bad breath

How is Sinusitis diagnosed?

We can usually diagnosis sinusitis based on your symptoms and with a physical exam. Other tests can be done and they include:

• Cultures from the nose
• Sinus X-rays
• Nasal Endoscopy
• Sinus computed tomography (CT) scan
• Blood tests

How is Sinusitis treated?

Depending upon your age, health, and how sick you are, your treatment may include:

• Pain relievers
• Nose drops
• Antibiotics for more severe symptoms
• Surgery, when other treatments fail