Discover the ins and outs of sinusitis on Meri Sehat. Learn about symptoms, causes, and effective remedies for sinus infections.

Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

A. JABBAR DENTAL CLINIC KARACHI

Sadia Khan

Overview

Sinusitis, also called rhinosinusitis, is a common medical condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the tissues lining the sinuses. 
&nbsp;

Sinuses are air-filled cavities in the skull that connect to the nasal passages. When these cavities become blocked and infected, they can cause sinusitis.

The epidemiology of sinusitis and the common<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/cold-flu"> cold</a> is similar. The prevalence of the common cold in the United States is 2-3 cases per person (adults) and 5-7 cases per person (children) in a year.

According to estimates, 0.5-2% of cases of viral upper<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/unidentified-respiratory-infections-a-public-health-concern"> respiratory infections</a> in adults and 6-13% of pediatric cases are due to a bacterial sinus infection.&nbsp;

Additionally, it was noted that adult women are diagnosed with sinusitis 1.8 times more often than adult men.<a href="#accordion">[1]</a> 
&nbsp;

Sinusitis is classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the condition.

<ul>
	<li>Acute Sinusitis: Acute sinusitis typically results from a viral infection, such as the common cold, and lasts for up to 4 weeks. It may cause symptoms like facial pain, nasal congestion, and thick nasal discharge. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Subacute Sinusitis: This type of sinusitis lasts longer than acute sinusitis but less than chronic sinusitis, typically between 4 and 12 weeks. It may result from an unresolved acute infection or other underlying issues. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Chronic Sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis persists for at least 12 weeks or recurs frequently. It is often associated with underlying medical conditions, such as allergies or nasal polyps, with more severe symptoms like facial pain, persistent nasal congestion, and loss of smell. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Recurrent Sinusitis: Recurrent sinusitis refers to multiple episodes (4 or more) of acute sinusitis in a year. Each episode lasts less than 2 weeks. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Sign and Symptoms

The symptoms of sinusitis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common signs and symptoms include:

<ul>
	<li>Facial pain or pressure, often around the eyes, nose, or forehead</li>
	<li>Nasal congestion or stuffiness</li>
	<li>Thick, colored (green or yellow) nasal discharge</li>
	<li>Postnasal drip</li>
	<li>Cough, which may worsen at night</li>
	<li>Headache</li>
	<li>Reduced sense of taste and smell</li>
	<li>Fatigue</li>
	<li>Sore throat</li>
	<li>Bad breath</li>
	<li>Ear pain 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Causes

Several factors can contribute to the development of sinusitis. The most common causes include:

<ul>
	<li>Viral Infections: The common cold and influenza are frequent viral infections that can lead to acute sinusitis when they affect the upper respiratory tract.</li>
	<li>Bacterial Infections: Sometimes, bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenza, and Moraxella catarrhalis, can trigger sinus infections.</li>
	<li>Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, or other allergens can cause inflammation and blockage of the sinus passages, leading to sinusitis.</li>
	<li>Nasal Polyps: These noncancerous growths in the nasal passages or sinuses can obstruct airflow and promote sinusitis.</li>
	<li>Structural Abnormalities: A deviated septum or narrow sinus openings can hinder proper drainage and lead to sinus infections. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Diagnosis

Sinusitis is primarily diagnosed based on a patient&#39;s medical history, symptoms, and physical examination by a healthcare provider. In some cases, additional tests may be recommended, including: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Nasal Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted into the nasal passages to examine the sinuses and nasal cavity.</li>
	<li>Nasal Swabs: A soft-tipped stick is used to collect a sample of nasal fluid. It&rsquo;s then checked for viruses or other germs.</li>
	<li>Imaging Studies: Computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be conducted to provide detailed images of the sinuses, helping to identify structural abnormalities or severe cases.<a href="#accordion">[2]</a></li>
	<li>Biopsy: Rarely, a tissue sample is taken from the nose for further testing.<a href="#accordion">[6]</a></li>
	<li>Allergy Testing: This is usually suggested for patients with chronic sinusitis. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Treatment

The treatment aims to relieve symptoms, address underlying causes, and prevent complications. Some treatment approaches include: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Home Care Measures: Rest, hydration, and humidification can help alleviate mild symptoms. Using saline nasal sprays or irrigation kits can also aid in reducing congestion and improving sinus drainage.</li>
	<li>Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, decongestants, and antihistamines can help manage symptoms. Prescription antibiotics may be necessary if a bacterial infection is suspected.</li>
	<li>Nasal Corticosteroids: These prescription medications can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and improve symptoms of chronic or severe sinusitis.(Note: It&rsquo;s not recommended to use non-prescription intranasal steroid drops or sprays for more than 3-5 days as they may increase congestion.)</li>
	<li>Surgical Interventions: Doctors may recommend surgical options like sinus surgery or the removal of nasal polyps when other treatments are ineffective or structural issues are present.</li>
	<li>Alternative Or Complementary Therapies: Some providers encourage acupuncture, acupressure, or facial massage to reduce pain and pressure associated with sinusitis. However, more research is needed to validate their usefulness in treating the condition. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Sinusitis is generally a treatable condition. However, complications can arise in severe or chronic cases.<a href="#accordion">[2]</a> 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Chronic Sinusitis: If left untreated, acute sinusitis can become chronic, leading to persistent discomfort and impaired quality of life.</li>
	<li>Orbital Cellulitis: An infection can spread to the tissues around the eye, causing swelling and pain. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.</li>
	<li>Meningitis: In rare cases, sinusitis can lead to a bacterial infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.</li>
	<li>Brain Abscess: Pus-filled pockets can form in the brain due to the spread of infection from the sinuses.</li>
	<li>Osteomyelitis: This is an infection of the bones of the face, particularly the forehead and cheekbones, which can result from untreated sinusitis.</li>
	<li>Vision Problems: A sinus infection that spreads to the eye socket can reduce vision and even cause blindness. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing sinusitis:

<ul>
	<li>Individual Health: Individuals with seasonal or nasal allergies, frequent respiratory infections, asthma, and weak immune systems due to medications or medical conditions are more prone to sinusitis. This is especially true in the case of children.</li>
	<li>Underlying Physical Issues: A deviated septum or narrow sinus openings can make sinusitis more likely.</li>
	<li>Lifestyle: Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate and inflame the nasal passages, increasing the risk of sinusitis. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The following preventive measures can reduce the risk of sinusitis: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Regular Handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections can help prevent the spread of viruses that can lead to sinusitis.</li>
	<li>In Cases&nbsp;Of Allergies, seek appropriate treatment to minimize inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.<a href="#accordion">[4]</a></li>
	<li>Avoid Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.</li>
	<li>Use Humidifiers indoors.<a href="#accordion">[5]</a></li>
	<li>Adequate Hydration helps maintain healthy mucous membranes in the nasal passages. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses, with acute, subacute, chronic, and recurrent forms.</li>
	<li>Symptoms include facial pain, nasal congestion, and thick nasal discharge.</li>
	<li>Common causes include viral and bacterial infections, allergies, nasal polyps, and structural abnormalities.</li>
	<li>Treatment includes home care, medications, and surgical interventions.</li>
	<li>Complications include chronic sinusitis, orbital cellulitis, meningitis, brain abscess, and osteomyelitis.</li>
	<li>Risk factors include lifestyle and immunodeficiency.</li>
	<li>Preventive measures include good hygiene, allergy management, avoiding smoking, using humidifiers, and staying hydrated.</li>
</ul>