Sinusitis

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammatory process that affects the inner part (mucosa) of the sinuses (the region of the bony cavities around the nose, cheekbones, and eyes). The disease can be the result of an infection, an allergic condition, or any factor that hinders the drainage of mucus from the sinuses. It is divided into:

• acute sinusitis: when symptoms are present for less than 12 weeks
• chronic sinusitis: when swelling and inflammation last for more than 12 weeks

Chronic sinusitis and acute sinusitis have similar symptoms, but acute sinusitis is classified as a temporary infection, often associated with a cold. Chronic sinusitis, on the other hand, corresponds to a longer-lasting inflammatory process.

Symptoms

The symptoms of acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis are similar, but they differ in intensity and duration. They include:

• nasal congestion (nasal obstruction) with yellowish or greenish mucus
• pain in the forehead region
• pain in the region above the mouth (upper jaw) and teeth
• reduction or loss of the ability to smell (olfaction)
• cough

Other symptoms may include: ear pain, fever, sore throat, bad breath and nausea. In the case of chronic sinusitis, the symptoms last for more than 12 weeks.

Causes

There are several factors that can facilitate the development of sinusitis. These include:

• infectious agents: such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses
• allergic factors: such as dust and odors
• shape and structure of the nose: in the hollow spaces within the bones around the nose (sinuses), small masses of tissue (polyps) can form, influencing the occurrence of sinusitis
• other allergic diseases: such as rhinitis and asthma
• respiratory infections: such as flu and colds
• smoking: the habit of smoking tobacco products, such as cigarettes and cigars
• deviated nasal septum: displacement to one side of the bone that divides the two nostrils
• facial trauma: injuries caused by impact situations
• altitude changes: usually occurring during flights or diving
• gastroesophageal reflux disease: when the contents of the stomach return to the esophagus

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of sinusitis is usually made during a consultation based on the symptoms described by the patient along with the data obtained from the examination performed by the healthcare professional.

In specific situations, the use of complementary exams, such as computed tomography, may be necessary. Blood tests are usually not required.

Treatment

Treatment is carried out through measures to relieve symptoms and combat the causative factor of the disease. The use of saline solution through nasal washes is a very useful measure in all cases of sinusitis, regardless of the cause. Inhaling saline solution or hot water vapor also helps to eliminate secretions and reduce symptoms.

Medications that reduce inflammation (nasal or oral corticosteroids) may be recommended by the healthcare professional. The use of medications that combat bacteria (antibiotics) is indicated only in cases where sinusitis is of bacterial origin and should be evaluated by the healthcare professional.

Prevention

Some ways to reduce the chance of developing sinusitis are:

• avoid air conditioning: it dries out the mucous membranes and hinders mucus drainage
• avoid contact with dust and other elements that cause allergies: such as strong odors and animal fur
• place water basins at home: this is a way to improve air quality and prevent allergy crises
• eat well: consume fruits, vegetables, and legumes, such as papaya and broccoli, which are healthy foods important for the body to defend itself against inflammation

References

Ministry of Health

Municipal Health Department of São Paulo

You might also like to read about:

Asthma: a respiratory disease that causes the tubes (bronchi) that carry air in and out of the lungs to become inflamed and narrowed

Rhinitis: an allergic reaction that affects the inner part (mucosa) of the nose

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): a disease that causes the lungs to become blocked or compressed, making it difficult for air to enter and exit and impairing breathing

By Einstein Editorial Board