Sinusitis
Last Update : 24-11-2023
Sinusitis
What is a sinus, and what is its function?
Sinuses are air-filled spaces located within the bones surrounding the nose. They are grouped into four main types: maxillary sinuses (cheek sinuses), frontal sinuses, ethmoid sinuses (frontal and posterior ethmoid sinuses located between the eyes), and sphenoid sinuses (located within the skull). The sinuses are connected to the nasal passages through small channels.
The inside of the nose and sinuses is lined with a structure called the mucosa, which produces a secretion called mucus. Throughout the day, approximately 0.5-1 liter of mucus is produced. This mucus is transported from the sinuses toward the nose through the movement of tiny hair-like structures called cilia located on the mucosa. It then proceeds to the back of the throat and is eventually swallowed. Mucus helps the body's defense system against microorganisms, traps particles and allergens in the inhaled air, and plays a role in filtering the air and humidifying it before it reaches the lungs. Additionally, sinuses have functions such as reducing the weight of the skull bones, enhancing resonance for sound, and absorbing impact in case of trauma to prevent it from reaching the brain.
What is Sinusitis? How does it occur?
Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of these air-filled spaces called sinuses. Various factors can contribute to sinusitis, such as blockage of the sinus openings into the nasal passages, impaired ciliary function, inability to transport mucus, and changes in mucus content or consistency.
The most common cause of sinusitis is viral upper respiratory tract infections. The second most common reason for sinusitis is mucosal edema that blocks the sinus openings, which is associated with allergies. Conditions that narrow or block the sinus drainage pathways, such as deviations in the nasal septum (septum deviation), nasal turbinate enlargement (concha hypertrophy), nasal polyps, and intranasal tumors, can also lead to sinusitis.
What symptoms may occur?
Symptoms of sinusitis may include nasal congestion, loss of smell, yellow, green, or bloody nasal discharge, fever, pain around the affected sinuses, which can be confused with toothache, pressure in the face, headache that intensifies when leaning forward, pain in the back of the head, bad breath, postnasal drip, and associated nausea and cough.
How is sinusitis diagnosed?
A diagnosis of sinusitis is typically made through an ear, nose, and throat examination in line with the patient's complaints. Detailed endoscopic examination of the nasal passages may be conducted, and diagnostic imaging methods may be employed if necessary.
How is sinusitis treated?
The goal of sinusitis treatment is to administer antibiotics and open the sinus openings into the nasal passages. Antibiotic treatment should continue for 10 days, and sometimes even 15-20 days, as needed. Decongestants in the form of tablets or sprays, pain relievers, and medications for allergies, if applicable, are given to relieve symptoms and alleviate pain. Decongestant sprays should not be used for more than 5 days.
If sinusitis becomes chronic and there are persistent blockages in the sinus openings that cannot be resolved with medications, surgical treatment may be necessary.
When is surgery necessary?
New-onset sinusitis (acute sinusitis) usually responds well to medical treatment, and surgery is rarely required. However, surgery is necessary in cases of chronic sinusitis that does not respond to medical treatment, as well as in situations where nasal septum deviation, nasal turbinate or bony deformities, polyp formation related to allergies, or complications have developed.
How is sinus surgery performed?
Sinus surgery is performed endoscopically through a camera inserted into the nose. This approach simplifies working within the narrow and dark interior of the nose and helps rectify the factors causing sinusitis, while also ensuring that the sinus openings are unblocked. Depending on the course of the surgery and the condition of the disease, it may be performed with or without packing.
What can happen if sinusitis is left untreated?
Untreated sinusitis can lead to complications such as the spread of infection into the eye sockets, potentially causing blindness, the development of abscesses in the brain lining or brain tissue due to the spread of infection, and abscess formation within the sinuses, as well as bone infections.
How can sinusitis be prevented?
Factors such as air pollution, allergens, and cigarette smoke can negatively affect sinus mucosa. Viral upper respiratory tract infections can rapidly spread in crowded and poorly ventilated areas, contributing to the development of sinusitis. Therefore, ensuring proper ventilation in living and working environments and not allowing smoking in these areas play a crucial role in preventing sinus infections. Dry air, which can thicken the nasal and sinus secretions and hinder their drainage, can also increase the risk of sinusitis. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the humidity levels in the environments where you live and work.
For more detailed information and appointment scheduling, please contact us at:
Phone: 0 530 852 852 2 Email: kbb@emreerkilet.com.tr