Sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavities located around the nose. The sinus cavities consist of the maxillary sinuses, located in the cheeks below the eyes; the ethmoid sinuses, located between the eyes; the frontal sinuses, located in the forehead; and the sphenoid sinuses, located deep within the skull. Normally, the sinuses are air-filled cavities within the skull, each connected to the nasal passages. It is the infection of these cavities that we refer to as sinusitis.
WHAT CAUSES SINUSITIS
Sinusitis usually occurs as a result of swelling that blocks the openings of the sinuses and prevents proper ventilation, often following an upper respiratory tract infection. Deviated nasal septums, allergies, enlarged nasal turbinates, anatomical abnormalities that block the sinus openings, and smoking contribute to the development of sinusitis. The vast majority of sinusitis cases are initially viral. However, after some time, bacteria become involved as a suitable environment develops within the sinuses. Sinusitis lasting less than 4 weeks is referred to as acute sinusitis. If the condition persists for more than 12 weeks, it is classified as chronic sinusitis.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SINUSITIS
In acute sinusitis, symptoms typically include headache, facial pain, inflammatory nasal discharge, postnasal drip, and occasionally fever. In chronic sinusitis, symptoms typically include headache, facial pain, nasal congestion, and postnasal drip. If left untreated, sinusitis can lead to serious complications such as preseptal cellulitis, eye abscess, and meningitis.