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Sinusitis

​Sinusitis is ​​inflammation of the lining of the paranasal sinuses​, which are air spaces adjacent to the nasal cavity.

Sinusitis
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What is Sinusitis?
The sinuses are air spaces around the nasal cavity that primarily help with humidifying of the air we breathe. These sinuses are lined with mucus secreting membranes. Inflammation of the lining of the sinuses is known as Sinusitis, and this can occur due to innate imbalances in a person's immune system, or because there is obstruction of mucus flow out of the sinuses.


Types of Sinusitis:
  • Acute: Symptoms last for less than 3-12 weeks.
  • Chronic: Symptoms persist for three months or longer.
  • Primary: Primary Sinusitis occurs due to diseased sinus linings.
  • Secondary: Secondary Sinusitis occurs as a result of another condition leading to sinus inflammation. Examples include dental infections, or rarely from a nasal tumour causing obstruction of the sinuses.
Signs and Symptoms of Sinusitis:
  • ​Discoloured, foul smelling nasal discharge
  • Nasal congestion or blockage
  • Headache or facial pain
  • Poor sense of smell
 

Treatment options for Sinusitis include medication and surgery.
For Secondary Sinusitis, it is important to identify the inciting condition and to treat it.


Medications includes:
  • ​Intranasal steroid sprays control the inflammation in the sinuses.
  • Nasal decongestants and antihistamines may reduce nasal stuffiness and discharge.
  • Antibiotics are used in cases of bacterial infection.
​

Surgery may be offered for sinusitis that does not respond to medication. The aim of surgery is to remove obstruction of the sinuses and to allow medication to penetrate into the sinuses.

New medications aimed at controlling the imbalances in the immune system (Immunologics) are constantly being developed for Chronic Sinusitis resistant to conventional treatment and surgery.

​   Contributed​ by Department of Otolaryngology (ENT)