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Chronic sinusitis

Diseases and Conditions Chronic sinusitis
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Chronic sinusitis is a persistent inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for 12 weeks or longer. The sinuses are air-filled spaces within the bones of the face and skull, and they play a crucial role in filtering and humidifying the air we breathe. When these sinuses become inflamed and swollen, it can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms and complications.

s a persistent inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for 12 weeks or longer. The sinuses are air-filled spaces within the bones of the face and skull, and they play a crucial role in filtering and humidifying the air we breathe. When these sinuses become inflamed and swollen, it can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms and complications.

Types of Chronic sinusitis

There are several types of chronic sinusitis, including:

  1. Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP): In this type, nasal polyps (small growths) develop in the nasal passages, obstructing airflow and causing inflammation.

  2. Chronic Rhinosinusitis without Nasal Polyps (CRSsNP): This type occurs without nasal polyps and is characterized by persistent inflammation of the sinuses.

Causes of Chronic sinusitis

The causes of chronic sinusitis can vary, but common factors include:

  • Nasal Polyps: These benign growths can block the nasal passages and lead to chronic inflammation.

  • Deviated Nasal Septum: A crooked or deviated nasal septum can obstruct airflow and contribute to sinusitis.

  • Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, or other environmental triggers can cause chronic inflammation.

  • Respiratory Infections: Chronic sinusitis may result from recurrent respiratory infections.

  • Exposure to Irritants: Prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, pollution, or other irritants can lead to sinus inflammation.

Risk Factors of Chronic sinusitis

Certain factors increase the risk of developing chronic sinusitis:

  • Nasal Anatomy: A deviated septum or narrow nasal passages can contribute to chronic inflammation.

  • Weakened Immune System: Conditions like cystic fibrosis or HIV weaken the immune system, making sinusitis more likely.

Symptoms of Chronic sinusitis

Common symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:
1. Nasal Congestion: Difficulty breathing through the nose due to swollen nasal passages. Feeling of pressure or fullness in the face.
2. Facial Pain and Tenderness: Pain around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, or upper teeth. Tenderness when touching the affected areas.
3. Discolored Nasal Discharge: Thick, yellow or green mucus draining from the nose. Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the throat).
4. Reduced Sense of Smell and Taste: Inflammation affects the olfactory nerves, leading to anosmia (loss of smell) and ageusia (loss of taste).
5. Headaches: Dull or throbbing headache, often worsened by bending forward.
6. Coughing and Sore Throat: Postnasal drip can irritate the throat, causing coughing and a scratchy throat.
7. Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping due to nasal congestion. Feeling tired and drained.
8. Ear Pressure and Pain: Sinus inflammation can affect the Eustachian tubes, leading to ear discomfort.
9. Bad Breath (Halitosis): Bacterial growth in the sinuses contributes to foul-smelling breath.
10. Eye Symptoms: Swollen eyelids. Watery or itchy eyes.

Preventions of Chronic sinusitis

To prevent chronic sinusitis:

  • Avoid Cigarette Smoke: Smoking worsens inflammation.
  • Manage Allergies: Control allergic reactions effectively.
  • Prevent Upper Respiratory Infections: Practice good hygiene.
  • Use a Humidifier: Maintain proper humidity levels.

Diagnosis of Chronic sinusitis

Diagnosing chronic sinusitis involves:

  • Physical examination: Assessing tenderness and using a nasal endoscope to examine the sinuses.
  • Imaging tests (CT scan or MRI): To visualize the sinuses.
  • Nasopharyngeal culture: Collecting a swab to identify bacterial or fungal infections.
  • Allergy skin test: Determining allergens responsible for the condition.

Treatment for Chronic sinusitis

Treatment options include:

  • Medication:

    • Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone, Triamcinolone) to reduce inflammation.
    • Antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin) if bacterial infection is present.

  • Procedures:

    • Saline nasal irrigation to rinse irritants and allergies.
    • Functional endoscopic sinus surgery to remove tissue or polyps.
    • Septoplasty to reshape a deviated nasal septum.

  • Therapy:

    • Immunotherapy (allergy shots) to reduce allergic reactions.

When to seek medical attention ?

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience new, severe, or persistent symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

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