Sinusitis Symptoms Types and Treatment

Sinusitis is a common health issue that affects many people. It occurs due to viral bacterial, or fungal infections or as a result of allergies. This condition leads to fluid accumulation in the sinuses, causing bothersome symptoms. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of sinusitis, its types, and the appropriate treatment for each type.

Symptoms of Sinusitis

1. Acute Sinusitis

Acute sinusitis lasts for a short period and is often associated with colds or allergies.

2. Chronic Sinusitis

This type lasts for more than 12 weeks and recurs periodically.

Common Symptoms

 Facial Pain or Pressure A person with sinusitis may experience pain around the eyes, under the eyes, on the forehead, and around the nose. The maxillary sinus can also affect the upper teeth, causing tooth pain. This pain can feel like a headache or throbbing around the eyes, worsening when bending forward.

 Runny Nose A runny nose is a key indicator of sinusitis. The mucus is usually yellow or green and may sometimes contain blood with an unpleasant odor. If the mucus drains into the throat, it causes an unpleasant taste and irritation in the back of the throat, known as "postnasal drip."

 Cough and Sore Throat Excess mucus production can irritate the throat, leading to a persistent cough, which worsens at night or upon waking up. It may also cause a hoarse voice and bad breath.

 Nasal Congestion Swelling in the sinuses and nasal passages can make breathing difficult, leading to a blocked sensation in the nose. It can also affect the sense of smell and taste and cause a muffled voice.

 Fever Although fever is not a common symptom of sinusitis, it can occur. The fever is usually low-grade.

Types of Sinusitis

1. Viral Sinusitis

 Clear or slightly colored nasal discharge.  Nasal congestion and sneezing.  Sore throat and cough.

Treatment

• Complete rest.

• Drinking warm fluids.

• Nasal saline sprays.

• Pain relievers and decongestants prescribed by a doctor.

2. Bacterial Sinusitis

 Thick, yellow, or green mucus.  Swelling in the nasal passages.  Postnasal drip.  Facial pain and pressure.

Treatment

• Antibiotics such as Amoxicillin.

• The treatment duration is typically 10-14 days.

3. Allergic Sinusitis

 Nasal congestion and runny nose.  Itching in the nose, throat, and eyes.  Frequent sneezing and postnasal drip.

Treatment

• Antihistamines.

• Avoiding allergens.

• Allergy shots may be necessary in some cases.

4. Chronic Sinusitis

 More severe symptoms that last for months.  Persistent nasal congestion.  Nosebleeds.  Severe cough at night or in the morning.  It can be caused by nasal polyps or a deviated septum.

Treatment

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays.

• Surgery may be required in some cases.

Complications of Sinusitis

 When Does Sinusitis Become Dangerous?

• Infection of the eye tissues.

• Blood clot formation in the nasal cavity.

• Meningitis.

• Brain abscess.

• Bone infections.

Serious Symptoms

• Swelling or redness around the eyes.

• Pain when moving the eyes.

• Vision changes.

• Drooping eyelid.

• Light sensitivity.

• Forehead swelling.

• Severe headache.

• Fever.

• Seizures or neck stiffness.

If these symptoms appear, seek immediate medical attention!

When Should You See a Doctor?

? If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, with:

✔ Fever. ✔ Runny and congested nose. ✔ Severe facial pain.

???? Or if serious symptoms appear, such as:

✔ Fever higher than 39.4°C (103°F). ✔ Neck stiffness. ✔ Vision changes.

Tips to Prevent Sinusitis

 Drink plenty of warm fluids. ✅ Regularly clean the nose with saline solution. ✅ Avoid smoking and polluted environments. ✅ Use humidifiers in winter. ✅ Wash hands frequently to prevent infections.

Conclusion

Sinusitis can be a bothersome and exhausting condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed effectively. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor immediately.

Which Doctor Treats Sinusitis

The specialist who treats sinusitis is an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor.

 If sinusitis is caused by allergies, you may need to see an allergy and immunology specialist.  In severe cases requiring surgery, a sinus and nasal surgeon is the specialist for the procedure.

If the symptoms are mild, you can start by visiting a general physician or family doctor, who will determine whether you need a specialist referral.