Understanding Sinusitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

TLDRSinusitis refers to inflammation of the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity. It can be acute or chronic and is often caused by infection, allergies, or obstruction of sinus drainage. Symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pain, and discharge. Treatment options include nasal sprays, antibiotics, and surgery.

Key insights

👃Sinusitis refers to inflammation of the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity.

Sinusitis can be acute or chronic, based on the duration of symptoms.

🤧Common causes of sinusitis include infection, allergies, and obstruction of sinus drainage.

💊Treatment options for sinusitis include nasal sprays, antibiotics, and surgery.

👨‍⚕️In severe cases or when complications arise, hospital admission may be necessary.

Q&A

What are the common symptoms of sinusitis?

Common symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain, facial pressure, discharge from the nose, and loss of smell.

What causes sinusitis?

Sinusitis can be caused by infection, allergies, obstruction of sinus drainage, or smoking. Certain medical conditions like asthma can also increase the risk.

How is sinusitis diagnosed?

In most cases, investigations such as nasal endoscopy or CT scan are not necessary. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and clinical examination.

What are the treatment options for sinusitis?

Treatment options include nasal sprays, antibiotics, saline nasal irrigation, and surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and duration of symptoms.

When is surgery recommended for sinusitis?

Surgery, known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), is recommended for chronic sinusitis that does not respond to other treatments. It can help remove obstructions and improve sinus drainage.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Sinusitis refers to inflammation of the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity.

00:12Sinusitis can be acute or chronic, with acute sinusitis lasting less than 12 weeks.

00:32Common causes of sinusitis include infection, allergies, and obstruction of sinus drainage.

03:21Symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain, and discharge.

04:59Investigations such as nasal endoscopy or CT scan may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

05:22Treatment options for sinusitis include nasal sprays, antibiotics, and surgery.

06:13Nasal spray technique is important for effective treatment.

07:37Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) may be recommended for chronic sinusitis.