Sinusitis
An inflammation of one or more of the sinuses, often as a complication of an upper respiratory infection or dental infection. It also may be caused by allergies, air travel, or underwater swimming. Sinusitis is extremely common and afflicts some people with every bout of the common cold. In many children, once a tendency toward sinusitis develops, the condition recurs with each viral infection.
Cause
Sinusitis is often caused by an infection spreading from the nose along the narrow passages that drain mucus from the sinuses into the nose. As the nasal mucous membranes swell, the openings from the sinuses to the nose may become blocked. This leads to a buildup of sinus secretions, often teeming with bacteria. The disorder is usually caused by a bacterial infection that develops as a complication of a viral infection.
Symptoms
Pressure, throbbing headache, fever, and local tenderness, together with a feeling of fullness or tension. It also may cause a stuffy nose and loss of the ability to smell.
Complications
Often sinusitis leads to the formation of pus in the affected sinuses, causing pain and a nasal discharge. More severe complications include MENINGITIS.
Diagnosis
CT scans are the best way to diagnose the disease. X rays may be taken to determine the location and extent of the disorder, and a culture may be grown from a swab of the sinus to identify the bacteria.
Treatment
Steam inhalations, nasal decongestants, painkillers, and antibiotics can help. Surgery to improve drainage may be performed for chronic problems.
Cause
Sinusitis is often caused by an infection spreading from the nose along the narrow passages that drain mucus from the sinuses into the nose. As the nasal mucous membranes swell, the openings from the sinuses to the nose may become blocked. This leads to a buildup of sinus secretions, often teeming with bacteria. The disorder is usually caused by a bacterial infection that develops as a complication of a viral infection.
Symptoms
Pressure, throbbing headache, fever, and local tenderness, together with a feeling of fullness or tension. It also may cause a stuffy nose and loss of the ability to smell.
Complications
Often sinusitis leads to the formation of pus in the affected sinuses, causing pain and a nasal discharge. More severe complications include MENINGITIS.
Diagnosis
CT scans are the best way to diagnose the disease. X rays may be taken to determine the location and extent of the disorder, and a culture may be grown from a swab of the sinus to identify the bacteria.
Treatment
Steam inhalations, nasal decongestants, painkillers, and antibiotics can help. Surgery to improve drainage may be performed for chronic problems.
