Sinusitis is inflammation of some spaces which are located in:
- The sinuses are air-filled cavitiesĀ
- Within the bony structure of the cheeks
- Behind the forehead and eyebrows
- On either side of the bridge of the nose
- Behind the nose directly in front of the brain
Signs / Symptoms
What's common signs of sinusitis?
- Thick, yellow or greenish discharge from the nose or down the back of the throat (postnasal drainage)
- Nasal blockage or congestion, causing difficulty breathing through nose
- Pain, tenderness, swelling and pressure around in eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead that worsens when bending over
- Ear pressure
- Headache
- Aching in your teeth
- Altered sense of smell
- Cough
- Bad breath
- Fatigue
- Fever
Common causes
What's common causes of sinusitis?
There are many causes of it that can be classified in such as:
- Bacteria
- Virus
- Fungi
- Allergy
Departments & Emergency
If you have one or more signs/symptoms it is recommended to visit a General Practitioner in the near future. Also, visit an Infectious Disease and Clinical Microbiology or Otolaryngology specialist at an appropriate time.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually clinically by asking questions about symptoms. An office visit is usually not needed. For advanced examination, a doctor can want extra tests such as:
- Nasal endoscopy
- Imaging studies
- Nasal and sinus samples
- Allergy testing
Treatment
For symptom relief:
- Avoidance of allergens
- Rinse nasal passages with salty water
- Use of cold compresses and tear supplements
- Antigen desensitization
- Medication
If it is caused by bacteria antibiotics can be used but not necessary.
FAQ
Can a sinus infection go away on its own?Ā
Symptoms normally go away on their own within 10 days.
How bad can a sinus infection get?
In rare cases,Ā sinus infections canĀ spread into the brainĀ and can cause conditions which canĀ be life-threatening.
Ā
References: American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, Mayo Clinic, NHS, CDC
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