Sinusitis

Introduction

Experiencing continuous discomfort due to sinus issues? Sinusitis could be the culprit. At the ENT, Sinus & Hearing Care Center, we are dedicated to helping you breathe easy and live without the constraints of sinus-related discomforts.

Defining Sinusitis

It refers to the inflammation of the sinuses, hollow air spaces adjacent to the nasal passages. This inflammation impedes proper drainage, leading to symptoms that can disrupt daily activities.

Types of Sinusitis:

• Acute Sinusitis: A sudden onset of symptoms, usually resolving with prompt treatment.
• Sub-acute Sinusitis: Symptoms that persist, often not immediately improving with treatment, but last less than three months.
• Chronic Sinusitis: A result of frequent acute infections or untreated previous infections, where symptoms persist for over three months.

What Triggers Sinusitis?

It often follows an upper respiratory infection or common cold. This infection inflames the nasal passages, obstructing the sinus openings and potentially leading to a sinus infection. Allergens can also be a root cause due to the nasal tissue inflammation and mucus overproduction they induce.

Other potential factors that contribute to sinusitis include:

• Structural nose abnormalities
• Enlarged adenoids
• Swimming or diving
• Dental infections
• Nasal trauma
• Foreign objects in the nose
• Cleft palate

Bacterial growth from trapped secretions can lead to sinusitis. Common bacteria linked are Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Symptoms to Look Out For

While it manifests differently across age groups, some general symptoms provide clues:

In Young Children:

• Persistent runny nose exceeding a week
• Thick nasal discharge – green, yellow, or even clear
• Nighttime cough
• Eye swelling

In Adults and Older Children:

• Prolonged cold symptoms over a week
• Post-nasal drip
• Headaches and facial pain
• Bad breath
• Coughing
• Fevers and sore throats
• Swelling around the eyes, more prominent in the mornings

Diagnosing Sinusitis

At the ENT, Sinus & Hearing Care Center, our specialist, Dr. Daniel S. Samadi, initiates a comprehensive medical assessment. Diagnosis might involve nasal or sinus fluid cultures, sinus X-rays, blood tests, and CT scans for a detailed view.

Treatment Options

The treatment spectrum is vast, tailored to the patient’s unique condition and health status. Acute sinusitis often resolves with nasal sprays, decongestants, or pain relievers. Chronic sinusitis may necessitate more intensive treatments like antibiotics, antifungal medications, or even allergen immunotherapy.

In chronic cases resisting standard treatments, surgery can be a viable option. Modern procedures like image-guided surgery, ensure precision, minimal invasiveness, and reduced blood loss.

Seek Expert Care Today!

If sinusitis symptoms persist, don’t suffer in silence. Let our team at the ENT, Sinus & Hearing Care Center guide you to the best care. Schedule an appointment now and rediscover the joy of a life free from sinus constraints.