Sinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal sinuses caused by viral, bacterial and fungal infections, or by allergic reactions. Symptoms include nasal congestion and obstruction, purulent nasal discharge, facial pain or pressure, and sometimes a feeling of discomfort, headache and/or fever. Decongestants, corticosteroid nasal spray and the application of heat and moisture can relieve symptoms and improve sinus drainage. Sinusitis can be acute (resolved in less than 30 days), subacute (resolved in 30 to 90 days), recurrent (4 acute episodes per year), or chronic (lasting longer than 90 days).
Introduction:
The sinuses are air-filled cavities located in the bones of the head and face. They have several important functions in the body. First, they play a role in breathing by helping to humidify and warm the air that is inhaled. Second, they protect the eyes, teeth and brain by absorbing shocks that may be caused by impacts or pressure on the head. Finally, the sinuses help give tone to the voice by resonating when we speak or sing.
There are four pairs of sinuses in the human body: the frontal sinuses (located above the eyes in the forehead bones), the maxillary sinuses (located below the eyes in the cheeks), the ethmoidal sinuses (located between the eyes and behind the nose) and the sphenoidal sinuses (located behind the ethmoidal sinuses and near the back of the head).
Sinusitis is a common condition characterized by infection or inflammation of the nasal sinuses. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus and often presents with a headache, a stuffy or runny nose, facial pain and a low-grade fever. Sinusitis can be acute, lasting a few weeks, or chronic, lasting more than 12 weeks. While sinusitis is often mild and can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications and lifestyle changes such as using sprays and drinking warm fluids, it can sometimes be severe and require medical intervention.
Definition
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing sinusitis, such as allergies, smoking, sudden changes in temperature and humidity, and certain medical conditions such as hay fever, asthma and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Sinusitis can also be caused by obstructions in the nasal passages, such as nasal polyps or excess mucus.
Sinusitis can be treated with medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antibiotics (for bacterial infection) and corticosteroids (for severe inflammation). Lifestyle changes such as using vaporizers and drinking warm fluids can also help relieve sinusitis symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove nasal blockages or repair damaged sinuses.
Synonyms
Sinusitis is also known as:
- Serous rhinitis
- Rhinopharyngitis
- Sinus Inflammation
- Rhinosis
- Acute sinusitis
- Chronic sinusitis
- Frontal sinusitis
- Maxillary sinusitis
- Ethmoidal sinusitis
- Sphenoidal sinusitis
- Nasal Inflammation
- Sinus Infection
- Mucositis
- Allergic rhinitis
- Infectious rhinitis
Usage
The term sinusitis is used to describe an infection or inflammation of the nasal sinuses. This condition can be caused by a virus, bacteria or, in rare cases, a fungus. Sinusitis can be acute, lasting less than 12 weeks, or chronic, lasting more than 12 weeks.
Although sinusitis is often mild and can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes, it can sometimes be severe and cause complications. The main complication of sinusitis is a local extension of a bacterial infection. This can lead to orbital or periorbital cellulitis, which is an infection of the area around the eye; cavernous sinus thrombosis, which is a blockage of the blood vessel in the sinus; or epidural or brain abscess, which is a buildup of pus in or around the brain. These complications can be serious and require immediate medical intervention.
Examples
The signs and symptoms of sinusitis can be varied. Here are the most common ones:
- Headaches, especially in the sinuses or frontal area
- Stuffy or runny nose, with clear, yellow or greenish nasal discharge
- Facial pain, especially in the cheeks, forehead, nose or teeth
- Mild to moderate fever
- Bad breath
- Unexplained fatigue or lack of vitality
- Loss of smell or taste
- Frequent sneezing or persistent coughing
- Feeling of pressure or congestion in the sinuses or nose
- Sore throat or earache
- Difficulty breathing through the nose or abnormal breathing sounds
It is important to note that these symptoms may be present in other diseases and are not specific to sinusitis. If you or your child has any of these symptoms, it is important to seek prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Sinusitis is a common medical condition that is characterized by infection or inflammation of the nasal sinuses. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria or, in rare cases, a fungus. Sinusitis usually presents with symptoms such as headache, stuffy or runny nose, facial pain, low-grade fever and bad breath. Sinusitis can be acute, lasting less than 12 weeks, or chronic, lasting more than 12 weeks.
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing sinusitis, such as allergies, smoking, sudden changes in temperature and humidity, and certain medical conditions such as hay fever, asthma and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Sinusitis can also be caused by obstructions in the nasal passages, such as nasal polyps or excess mucus.
Sinusitis can be treated with medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antibiotics (for bacterial infection) and corticosteroids (for severe inflammation). Lifestyle changes such as using vaporizers and drinking warm fluids can also help relieve sinusitis symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove nasal blockages or repair damaged sinuses.
It is important to get diagnosed and treated properly for sinusitis to prevent complications, which can be serious. If you are experiencing symptoms of sinusitis or have a history of sinusitis, it is recommended that you see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. By taking care of your nasal health, you can prevent relapses and improve your quality of life.
Appendices
Bibliographic references.
- Dr. Marvin P. Fried. December 2021. "Sinusitis." https://www.merckmanuals.com/fr-ca/professional/affections-de-l-oreille,-du-nez-et-de-la-gorge/pathologies-du-nez-et-des-sinus/sinusite#:~:text=The%20principal%20complication%20of%20la,a%20abc%C3%A8s%20%C3%A9pidural%20or%20c%C3%A9r%C3%A9bral. [last accessed January 5, 2023]