What is Sinusitis?
It is the inflammation of the nose and paranasal sinuses. It is either acute rhinosinusitis when inflammation lasts for up to 4 weeks, or chronic when it persists for at least 12 weeks.
What are the Symptoms of Rhinosinusitis?
- Fever
- Nasal discharge
- Nasal obstruction
- Facial pain
- Disorders of smell
- Others: cough, toothache, malaise, ear fullness, pressure, and headache
What is the Treatment of Acute Sinusitis?
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics should be used for 10 days
- Nasal saline irrigations
- Intranasal corticosteroids
- Others: Topical or Oral Decongestants, Analgesics, Antihistamines, and Mucolytics
Complications of Acute Sinusitis
- Orbital complications are the most common complications, which range from simple eyelid swelling to blindness
- Intracranial complications e.g. meningitis and abscess formation
What is the Role of Surgical Intervention in Chronic Rhinosinusitis?
Surgery is the main component in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis. Endoscopic sinus surgery is indicated for a disease that is unresponsive to medical treatment. The goal of surgery is to facilitate the natural drainage of the sinuses, eradicate the infection, and remove nasal polyps.
