Sinusitis

Sinusitis: causes, symptoms, treatment

Sinusitis is one of the most common diseases of the respiratory system, which is characterized by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. It can occur as a result of various factors and take different forms, depending on which sinus is affected. In this article we will look at the causes of sinusitis, its symptoms and treatment methods.

Causes of sinusitis

The main cause of sinusitis is microorganisms that enter the paranasal sinuses when the ciliary activity of the cilia of the nasal mucosa is disrupted. This usually occurs with a runny nose, when germs, instead of being removed from the nasal cavity, enter the lumen of the sinuses. However, sometimes sinusitis can be caused by other factors, such as dental disease, tumors, foreign bodies in the sinuses, and anatomical defects such as a deviated nasal septum.

Forms of sinusitis

Depending on which of the paranasal sinuses was affected, several forms of sinusitis are distinguished:

1. Sinusitis is inflammation of the maxillary sinuses, the most common type of sinusitis;
2. Frontitis – inflammation of the frontal sinus;
3. Ethmoiditis - inflammation of the ethmoid labyrinth;
4. Sphenoiditis is inflammation of the sphenoid sinus.

In addition, sinusitis is divided into acute and chronic. Acute sinusitis lasts up to 8 weeks, while chronic sinusitis lasts longer, and relapses occur more than 4-5 times a year.

Symptoms of sinusitis

Symptoms for different forms of sinusitis are approximately the same, the localization of pain differs. In general, the main complaints about sinusitis are associated with constant headaches, difficulty in nasal breathing, and decreased sense of smell. The mucous discharge is initially liquid, then becomes cloudy and purulent. The temperature often rises and chills appear. Headaches are very specific - it feels as if the sinuses are bursting from the inside, sometimes when you move your head you get the feeling that something is overflowing inside.

Treatment of sinusitis

Treatment of sinusitis should be comprehensive and aimed at eliminating the causes of the disease, as well as the symptoms. In the acute form of sinusitis, antibiotics, as well as anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs are used. Chronic sinusitis may require surgery to remove the damaged tissue.

In addition, to improve the patient's condition and reduce the symptoms of sinusitis, it is recommended to carry out procedures such as rinsing the nose with saline solution, using vasoconstrictor drops or nasal sprays, as well as using inhalers and humidifiers.

If symptoms of sinusitis occur, you should consult an otolaryngologist for diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated, sinusitis can lead to serious complications such as orbital or cerebral abscess.

In conclusion, it should be noted that sinusitis is a serious disease that requires timely and comprehensive treatment. At the first symptoms of the disease, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing appropriate treatment. You should also remember about the prevention of sinusitis, which includes strengthening the immune system, maintaining nose and mouth hygiene, and avoiding exposure to irritating factors.