Sinusitis, also known as rhinosinusitis, is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind the forehead, cheeks, nasal bones, and around the eyes. Sinusitis can cause symptoms such as thick nasal mucus production, nasal congestion, facial pain, facial pressure, loss of smell, and sometimes fever. It is typically caused by infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal) or allergies, which lead to swelling and blockage of the sinus openings, preventing normal mucus drainage. This blockage creates an environment where germs can grow, leading to further infection and symptoms. Sinusitis can be classified into several types based on duration:
- Acute sinusitis: symptoms lasting less than 4 weeks, usually viral but can be bacterial.
- Subacute sinusitis: symptoms lasting between 4 to 12 weeks.
- Chronic sinusitis: symptoms persisting for 12 weeks or longer.
Other contributing factors include allergies, environmental irritants, structural abnormalities in the nasal cavity, and weakened immune function. Risk factors include exposure to tobacco smoke, allergies, and conditions like cystic fibrosis or asthma. Diagnosis is mainly based on symptoms, and sometimes confirmed with nasal endoscopy or imaging in chronic or complicated cases. Treatment may include symptom relief with painkillers, nasal steroids, nasal irrigation, and if bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics such as amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanate. Chronic sinusitis that does not respond to medication might require surgery. Sinusitis is very common, affecting about 10-30% of people annually in the US and Europe. This summary captures the key aspects of sinusitis, its causes, symptoms, classification, and treatment options. Let me know if you want detailed information on any specific area.
