What is Sinusitis?
It is basically inflammation and subsequent swelling of tissues lining the sinuses. There are 4 paired sinuses. They make mucus-like secretions that drain out of the nose. They are usually filled with air but, when blocked, get filled with fluid and may become infected.
Acute Sinusitis| Sinus infection
Acute sinusitis is inflammation of sinuses causing them to be blocked and subsequently leading to fluid accumulation. It is usually caused by allergies or colds. Sinus blockage can cause added bacterial infections because of retained fluid.
Types of sinuses
- Ethmoidal
- Maxillary
- Sphenoids
- Frontal
Maxillary sinuses are the biggest and the most common sinuses to get infected.
Causes of sinuses
- Common cold
- Allergy
- Polyps
- Deviated nasal septum
Signs and symptoms
- Post nasal drip(mucus drips down the throat)
- Thick nasal discharge/ stuffy nose
- Facial pressure around the nose, ear, and forehead
- Headache and pain in the ear
- Fever
Diagnosis
- Detailed ENT examination(Nasal endoscopy)
- CT Scan
Treatment
Simple sinusitis without infection
- Nasal decongestant drops like Otrivin
- Nasal saline irrigation
- Plenty of fluids
- Bedrest, if feeling tired
If symptoms don’t resolve in 2 weeks then,
- Antibiotics
- Oral decongestant
- Nasal steroids
If still it doesn’t get resolved, contact the ENT specialist regarding the need for surgery.
Prevention
- Avoid things which you are allergic to
- Avoid sick people
- Wash hands
- Smoking cessation.
Dr. Laba Kumar Nayak
