Sinusitis – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can be acute or chronic. It causes facial pain, nasal congestion, and a feeling of pressure in the head.
Things worth knowing about "Sinusitis"
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can be acute or chronic. It causes facial pain, nasal congestion, and a feeling of pressure in the head.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the paranasal sinuses -- air-filled cavities located in the bones around the nose and forehead. These sinuses connect to the nasal cavity and help regulate airflow and mucus drainage. Sinusitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks) and is one of the most common health conditions worldwide.
Causes
The most frequent causes of sinusitis include:
- Viral infections: The majority of acute sinusitis cases follow a common cold, which inflames the nasal lining and blocks sinus drainage.
- Bacterial infections: A secondary bacterial infection can develop after a viral episode, leading to more severe symptoms.
- Allergies: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) chronically irritates the nasal passages and increases the risk of developing chronic sinusitis.
- Structural issues: A deviated nasal septum or nasal polyps can obstruct normal sinus drainage.
- Fungal infections: Rare, but more likely in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of sinusitis include:
- Facial pressure or pain, especially below the eyes, across the forehead, or at the bridge of the nose
- Blocked or runny nose with thick, discolored (yellow or green) mucus
- Reduced or absent sense of smell
- Headaches
- Fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell
- Fever, particularly with bacterial infections
- Pain that worsens when bending forward or lowering the head
Diagnosis
Sinusitis is typically diagnosed through:
- Clinical evaluation: A doctor reviews the symptoms and presses on facial areas to check for tenderness.
- Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible camera is inserted into the nasal passages to examine the sinus openings and mucous membranes.
- Imaging (CT scan): Used in chronic or complicated cases to assess the extent of inflammation and any structural abnormalities.
- Nasal swab: May be taken to identify bacterial pathogens in suspected bacterial sinusitis.
Treatment
Acute Sinusitis
Most cases of acute sinusitis resolve on their own without antibiotics. Recommended measures include:
- Decongestant nasal sprays or drops (for short-term use only)
- Saline nasal irrigation to clear mucus and soothe the lining
- Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
- Steam inhalation to ease congestion
- Adequate rest and fluid intake
Bacterial Sinusitis
When a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, antibiotics such as amoxicillin are prescribed. Treatment typically lasts between 5 and 10 days.
Chronic Sinusitis
Management of chronic sinusitis may include:
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation
- Allergy treatment when an allergic cause is identified
- Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) when conservative treatments fail to provide relief
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe headache or stiff neck
- Visual changes or swelling around the eyes
- High fever above 39 degrees Celsius
- Symptoms that persist for more than 10 days or worsen after initial improvement
References
- Fokkens WJ et al. - European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps 2020. Rhinology. 2020;58(Suppl S29):1-464.
- Rosenfeld RM et al. - Clinical Practice Guideline: Adult Sinusitis. Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. 2015;152(2 Suppl):S1-S39.
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Acute Respiratory Infections including Sinusitis. WHO Global Health Observatory, 2023.
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Related search terms: Sinusitis-en