What do we know about sinusitis?
Acute sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, which often occurs after a cold or flu. People get acute sinusitis once or twice in their lives, but some experience recurring episodes several times a year. More about sinusitis, told Raimbek Aukenov, an otolaryngologist at the National Hospital.
The sinuses are small air cavities in the facial and frontal bones. They clean, warm and moisturize the air we breathe. They also act as resonators, giving our voice a special tone and timbre. They produce mucus, which flows through small passages into the nasal cavity. Depending on the inflammation of the sinuses, they are divided into sinusitis, sphenoiditis, frontal sinusitis and ethmoiditis. Most are a complication of acute rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal cavity) caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Sometimes allergies can be the cause. With rhinitis (runny nose), inflammation causes swelling of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses, increasing mucus production. However, due to the narrowing of the ducts, mucus removal is impaired, which leads to stagnation and further development of mucus in the sinuses. Most often, the maxillary (maxillary) sinuses are affected, says doctor Raimbek Beibituly
How does sinusitis develop?
Acute sinusitis means that the infection develops quickly, within a few days, and is short-lived. Sinusitis is considered acute if it lasts from 4 to 30 days, and subacute if it lasts from 4 to 12 weeks. Most cases of acute sinusitis last about a week. Sometimes it can last up to 2-3 weeks or longer.
In terms of severity, most people often have a mild form of acute sinusitis associated with a cold. Severe acute sinusitis is rare and is usually accompanied by a bacterial infection. This can worsen the condition and lead to complications.
Factors that trigger or contribute to the development of sinusitis:
Anatomical features: deviation of the nasal septum, hypertrophy of the nasal contours, nasal polyps. Narrow mucous drainage channels: consequences of injuries, congenital abnormalities. Some diseases and environmental factors: Cystic fibrosis, allergies, diabetes, irritants (cigarette smoke, dust, chemicals, working in cold conditions or in dusty, gas-polluted areas. The main symptoms of sinusitis are: pain and tenderness in the affected sinus, pain when tilting the head or blowing the nose, frequent sneezing, pain when chewing. If the sinus passages are blocked with thick mucus, a runny nose may stop. In this case, pain and tenderness in the sinus area increase. Nasal symptoms: usually both sides of the nose are blocked. There may be a temporary loss of smell. Rhinitis (runny nose): If the discharge is green or yellow, there may be a bacterial infection and pus has formed. The body temperature may be low-grade (37.0 – 37.50 C) or higher. Other symptoms include: headache, bad breath, toothache, cough, ear pressure or fullness, fatigue. A general feeling of weakness may develop. In children irritation, ear discomfort, snoring, mouth breathing, nasal discharge, and difficulty feeding in infants.
How is acute sinusitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis is usually made based on the characteristic symptoms. An otolaryngologist will take your temperature, check your sinuses, nasal cavity, and throat, and perform a physical examination of your ears. If the diagnosis is not clear and to rule out complications, additional tests may be ordered. These may include blood tests, X-rays, or CT scans.
Treatment for Sinusitis: Are Antibiotics Necessary?
Most cases of acute sinusitis are caused by a viral infection. Like a cold, the immune system usually fights off the virus and the symptoms go away within two weeks. Antibiotics do not kill viruses, and they are not susceptible to antibiotics. Although sinusitis is caused by bacteria, the immune system usually resolves the problem on its own. Antibiotics can cause side effects, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rash, and fungal infections.
Your doctor will prescribe antibiotic therapy if: you have severe or worsening symptoms, general discomfort, or other conditions (cystic fibrosis, heart problems, weakened immune system), if symptoms do not go away or get worse within 7 days. Self-help symptoms can be relieved by taking painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen) to help reduce pain and a high fever. If the body temperature is above 38 C, it should be brought down. It is advisable to use nasal sprays or drops, which temporarily reduce nasal congestion and make breathing easier, but do not shorten the duration of the illness. It is best not to use them for more than 5-7 days to avoid dependence and side effects. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of warm fluids can help reduce congestion. Rinsing the nose with saline and solutions can help relieve congestion. Steam inhalation is not recommended, as its effectiveness is questionable and can cause burns. Some say that a hot shower provides temporary relief. The main thing is not to self-medicate. If the symptoms of sinusitis worsen or persist within a week, if you have a fever or sinus infection, severe pain in the forehead, swelling, swelling around the eyes, facial swelling, bloody discharge from the nose, see a doctor immediately.
Preventing sinusitis
To prevent acute sinusitis or prevent the condition from becoming chronic, it is important to take simple preventive measures. It is very important to completely treat any cold that is accompanied by a runny nose and nasal congestion. If rhinitis persists, you should consult an ENT specialist. Also: treat dental caries and gum disease in a timely manner, and visit the dentist regularly. Avoid long walks in dusty, damp, polluted, dry or smoky environments.
To prevent hay fever or perennial rhinitis during allergies, consult an allergist and ENT specialist. To improve the immune system, you should strengthen the body by eating fresh fruits and berries and exercising in the fresh air.
Avoid people with acute respiratory viral infections, flu, and other airborne infections.
Wear a disposable mask in crowded places, public places, and vehicles during the cold and flu season. Use nasal drops and sprays only as directed. Excessive, prolonged use can lead to addiction and side effects. Drink as much clean water as possible to keep your mucous membranes moist. Make it a habit to rinse your nose with solutions containing sea salt or regular salt before leaving and after entering the house. Get vaccinated before the flu season begins. Following these recommendations will strengthen your immune system and prevent sinusitis, says Dr. R. Aukenov.
