sinusit

Sinusit, or sinusitis, is inflammation of the mucosa of the paranasal sinuses and adjacent nasal passages. Most cases begin with a viral upper respiratory infection and resolve, but inflammation can persist or recur.

Acute sinusitis lasts up to four weeks; chronic sinusitis persists for 12 weeks or longer; recurrent acute sinusitis involves several episodes within a year. Causes include viral infections, bacterial superinfection, allergies, nasal polyps, and anatomical factors that obstruct sinus drainage pathways.

Common symptoms include facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, purulent nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, and sometimes fever. Chronic sinusitis may present with persistent nasal symptoms, postnasal drip, and fatigue.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on symptom duration and examination. Imaging such as CT may be used in persistent or complicated cases; endoscopic examination can assess drainage pathways. Distinguishing viral from bacterial sinusitis is often based on symptom duration and clinical findings.

Treatment aims to relieve obstruction and inflammation. Many acute cases resolve with supportive care: nasal saline irrigation, humidification, analgesics, and rest. Intranasal corticosteroids may help with inflammation and nasal polyps. Antibiotics are considered for acute bacterial sinusitis or chronic sinusitis with bacterial exacerbations, following guideline recommendations.

Prevention includes managing allergies, avoiding irritants, and treating dental infections when relevant. Recurrent or chronic cases may require specialist evaluation and, in some instances, surgical intervention to restore sinus drainage. Prognosis varies; most acute sinusitis improves with treatment, while chronic sinusitis can be more persistent and relapsing.