Sinusproblem

Sinusproblem is a term used informally to describe disorders affecting the paranasal sinuses, the air-filled cavities around the nose. The sinuses include the maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid spaces. When drainage from the sinuses is blocked or the lining becomes inflamed, mucus can accumulate and produce symptoms.

Common conditions encompassed by sinusproblems include acute rhinosinusitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and less frequently fungal or allergic sinus diseases. Acute sinusitis is often linked to a viral upper respiratory infection but can be bacterial; chronic sinusitis involves long-standing inflammation with nasal obstruction and may be associated with nasal polyps.

Symptoms typically include nasal congestion or blockage, facial pressure or pain (around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead), reduced sense of smell, thick or discolored nasal discharge, and sometimes fever or dental pain. In chronic cases, symptoms persist for many weeks or months despite initial treatment.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on history and physical examination. Imaging such as a CT scan is not routinely needed but may be used in chronic or complicated cases or before sinus surgery. Nasal endoscopy can visualize drainage pathways, identify polyps, and guide treatment.

Treatment depends on the underlying condition and its severity. Viral acute sinusitis generally improves with rest, hydration, analgesics, and saline nasal irrigation. Antibiotics are reserved for cases meeting criteria for bacterial infection. Chronic rhinosinusitis often requires intranasal corticosteroids, saline irrigation, and management of associated allergies, with systemic steroids in some cases. Refractory disease or obstruction with polyps may require functional endoscopic sinus surgery to restore drainage.

Complications, though uncommon, can include orbital infections, meningitis, or intracranial abscess. Prevention focuses on allergy management, avoiding irritants, good nasal hygiene, and prompt treatment of upper respiratory infections.