Sinusitis - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Definition

Sinusitis is infection of the mucous membranes that line the inside of the nose and sinuses. There are four types of sinusitis are present. These ares :-

Frontal sinuses over the eyes in the brow area
Maxillary sinuses inside each cheekbone
Ethmoid sinuses just behind the bridge of the nose and between the eyes
Sphenoid sinuses behind the ethmoids in the upper region of the nose and behind the eyes

Causes

A number of factors predispose one to sinusitis. The most common situation occurs when a viral upper respiratory infection (in other words, a cold) causes swelling and congestion of the lining of the nose. This may result in obstruction of the relatively small sinus openings, decreasing normal sinus ventilation and drainage.

Allergies to dust, pollen, pet dander; indoor air pollutants, such as cigarette smoke, rug shampoo and formaldehyde (used in the manufacture of carpeting, particleboard and plywood); and outdoor air pollutants all can induce inflammation.

Symptoms

Sinus symptoms are very common during a cold or flu, but in most of these cases they are due to the effects of the infecting virus and resolve when the infection does. It is important to differentiate between inflamed sinuses associated with cold or flu virus and sinusitis caused by bacteria. Symptoms may include :-

Headache
High temperature
Nasal congestion or obstruction
Pain and tenderness in the face, especially when coughing or bending over
Yellow or green nasal discharge
Loss of taste and smell.
Fever.
Tooth pain.

The area of the face over the inflamed sinus may even appear swollen in some cases. The location of pain and tenderness may depend on which sinus is affected. Pain in your forehead that starts when you lean forward can also be a sign.

Treatment

Specific treatment for sinusitis will be determined by your child's physician based on :-

Your child's age, overall health, and medical history
Extent of the infection
Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Your opinion or preference

Treatment of sinusitis may include the following :-

Antibiotics, as determined by your child's physician (antibiotics are usually given for at least 14 days)
Acetaminophen (for pain or discomfort)
Cool humidifier in your child's room
Nasal spray to reduce inflammation
Medications to treat GERD
Surgery to remove the adenoids

Referral to an allergist/immunologist is often needed, particularly for people with chronic or recurrent sinusitis and for patients who have had sinus surgery, but still experience sinusitis. An antihistamine does not help the symptoms of sinusitis unless an allergy is involved.

Sinusitis is infection of the mucous membranes that line the inside of the nose and sinuses.

Alien writes for Woman health . He also writes for family health and you might be interested in vitamins and minerals information.

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