Sinusitis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Sinusitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs in the sinus walls.
The sinuses themselves are empty cavities located in the cheekbones ( maxillary ), the lower part of the forehead (frontal), the back of the nasal cavity ( sphenoid ), and between the nose and the ethmoid.
One of the duties of the sinuses is to produce mucus (thick, sticky fluid) in the nose.
Mucus also works to prevent the entry of germs, allergens that cause allergies, and foreign objects that can cause infection in the body.
Type
This condition is divided into two types, namely:
1. Acute Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis is usually caused by a common cold. However, if there is a bacterial infection, it can heal within a week to 10 days.
2. Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis occurs when the spaces inside your nose and head (sinuses) become swollen and inflamed for three months or more, despite treatment.
Chronic sinusitis can be caused by an infection, nasal polyps or by inflammation of the lining of the sinuses.
Symptoms
Sinusitis in children generally causes symptoms such as:
- a cold that lasts longer than seven to 10 days
- Snot is usually thick green or yellow but can be clear
- cough at night
- sore throat
- mild fever
- swelling around the eyes
- there are usually no headaches under the age of 5 years
Meanwhile, symptoms of sinusitis in adults include:
- thick green or yellow mucus or snot
- mucus running down the back of the throat
- nasal congestion
- smelly breath
- headache
- cough
- pain or pressure in the forehead, cheeks, nose between the eyes
- reduced taste power
- fever
- reduced sense of smell
- sore throat
Reason
Besides knowing what sinusitis is, you also need to know what causes it, such as:
Virus
Cold and flu viruses can affect the nasal passages. The location of one of the sinus cavities which is very close to the nose allows the virus to move.
Sinusitis usually lasts longer than colds and flu.
Allergic Rhinitis
Sometimes, rhinitis can coexist with sinusitis. That is why the two are often confused.
Nasal Polyps
Polyps are small growths. One of the causes is very thick mucus to form flesh.
Cystic Fibrosis
This condition occurs due to thickened mucus in various parts of the body, such as the nasal cavities and lungs. As a result, the breathing process is disturbed.
Disorders of the Body’s Immune System
Someone with a very low immune system, such as someone with HIV / AIDS, is usually prone to sinusitis.
Tooth Infection
Bacteria lodged in the mouth, teeth and gums can spread to the sinus cavities. That is why, tooth infections must be treated immediately.
Congenital Abnormalities
Sinusitis can also be caused by an abnormality in the shape of the bones in the nasal cavity. Usually a crooked shape or not straight.
Risk Factors
The following are risk factors for someone to get sinusitis, both acute and chronic:
- anatomic or structural abnormalities of the nasal passages (eg deviated nasal septum or polyps)
- exposure to secondhand smoke
- have a history of allergic rhinitis, asthma
- immune problems (HIV, long-term corticosteroid use, etc.)
- infection of the respiratory tract
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of sinusitis can be made through:
Medical Interview
Detailed medical interview about any symptoms experienced and for how long.
Physical examination
The physical exam may include the ears, nose, and throat.
The doctor can also use a small flashlight or binocular camera (nasal endoscope) to see the condition of the nose and its surroundings.
The doctor can also examine areas of pain on the face where the sinuses are located.
Sinus X-ray
A diagnostic test that uses an invisible beam of electromagnetic energy to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film.
Computed Tomography (CT atau CAT Scan)
CT scans can show detailed images of every part of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, and organs.
CT scan results are more detailed than general X-rays.
cultural
Lab tests with a sample of sinus fluid to see if there is any growth of bacteria or microorganisms to aid in the diagnosis.
Allergy Test
Allergy testing is done if the doctor suspects that allergies are a trigger for sinusitis.
A skin test can help determine which allergen is causing your nose to become inflamed.
Treatment
In less severe cases (acute sinusitis), the inflammation will usually improve within two weeks.
For some people, the condition improves on its own even without special treatment.
If the condition has not improved, you can consult an ENT (ear nose throat) specialist to get treatment, such as:
Decongestant spray
You should not use it for more than a week.
Antibiotics
This drug is needed if sinusitis is caused by bacteria.
Antihistamines
How to treat sinusitis is done especially if the mucus is accompanied by allergies.
Saline solution
The goal is to get rid of thick mucus.
Operation
This procedure is only performed if sinusitis is caused by a congenital abnormality.
Drink water
Lots of water consumption can help thin mucus
Get enough rest
Make sure you have enough rest time.
Inhale warm steam
Inhaling warm steam can be one way to relieve sinuses.
Some sinusitis medications that can be suggested are:
- Amoxicillin is the first-line antibiotic for most patients with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis
- fluticasone and triamcinolone acetonide for nasal spray
- nasal hygiene solution
- ibuprofen for pain
Prevention
Some ways to prevent sinusitis are:
- avoid upper respiratory tract infections
- Avoid trigger allergens
- manage asthma and allergic rhinitis
- use a humidifier
Complications
Some complications of sinusitis to watch out for include:
- meningitis. This complication occurs when the infection spreads to the wall or lining of the brain
- olfactory disorders. Infection in the sinus area can gradually interfere with the olfactory nerve, temporarily or permanently
- infection spreading to other areas, such as osteomyelitis or mastoiditis
When to See a Doctor?
You are advised to see a doctor immediately if you find symptoms:
- fever
- swelling or redness around your eyes or forehead
- severe headache
- confusion
- double vision or other vision changes
- stiff neck