Sinusitis – also known as rhinosinusitis – is an inflammation of the tissue lining of the sinuses that afflicts millions of people each year.
Normally, sinuses are filled with air, but when sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, pathogens (bacteria, viruses and fungi) can grow and cause an infection. Structural issues such as narrowed drainage anatomy are often associated with sinusitis.
Affected Sinuses
There are four types of sinuses – maxillary (behind the cheek bones), ethmoid (between the eyes), frontal (in the forehead) and sphenoid (behind the eyes). All of these sinuses can be affected by sinusitis. The majority of cases involve the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses.
Common Symptoms
- Facial congestion/fullness
- Nasal obstruction/blockage
- Nasal discharge
- Fever
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dental pain
- Bad breath
What are Your Sinusitis Treatment Options?
The first line of treatment for sinusitis is medical therapy, including drugs such as antibiotics and steroids. While the specific regimen is at the discretion of the physician, extensive medical therapy typically includes:
- antibiotic therapy for at least four weeks
- trial of inhaled steroids
- nasal lavage
- allergy assessment