Overview
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses, which are cavities filled with air located behind the nose, forehead, and part of the cheeks. These cavities are necessary for proper mucus drainage.
The sinuses can become blocked with fluid which increases the risk of germs and, consequently, sinus infections. Infections of the sinuses are referred to as sinusitis and can be diagnosed on a scale from acute to chronic.
Causes:
- Common cold or flu
- Allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps
- Deviated septum
Acute sinusitis lasts 2-4 weeks. Subacute sinusitis can last 4-12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis lasts longer than 12 weeks. Recurrent sinusitis occurs several times a year.
Symptoms:
- Facial pressure and pain
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Loss of smell
- Cough
- Fever
- Dental pain
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
- Post-nasal drip
- Discolored mucus
- Pus in the nasal cavity
- Headaches
The recommended treatment for chronic sinusitis is Balloon Sinuplasty.
