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Sinusitis

Inflammation of the paranasal sinus mucosa, usually from viral or bacterial infection.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is inflammation of the mucosal lining of the paranasal sinuses (maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, sphenoid). It usually accompanies rhinitis, hence the term rhinosinusitis. Most acute episodes are triggered by viral upper respiratory infections, with secondary bacterial superinfection in roughly 0.5-2% of cases.

Acute sinusitis lasts up to four weeks; subacute four to twelve weeks; chronic over twelve weeks. Predisposing factors include allergic rhinitis, septal deviation, nasal polyps, dental infections, immunodeficiency and exposure to cigarette smoke. Bacterial agents include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Diagnosis is clinical, supported by anterior rhinoscopy and, when indicated, paranasal sinus CT. Treatment involves nasal saline irrigation, intranasal steroids, decongestants and analgesics; antibiotics are reserved for clearly bacterial or persistent disease. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) may be required in chronic, refractory cases.

Symptoms

Facial pain and pressure
Nasal congestion
Purulent nasal discharge
Postnasal drip and cough
Hyposmia or anosmia
Headache and dental pain
Fever in bacterial cases

Risk Factors

Allergic rhinitis
Nasal septal deviation
Nasal polyps
Recurrent upper respiratory infections
Dental root infections
Cigarette smoke and air pollution
Immunodeficiency

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Symptoms persisting beyond 10 days
  • High fever and severe facial pain
  • Periorbital swelling or visual changes
  • Severe headache with neck stiffness
  • Recurrent sinusitis episodes

Treatment Methods

01
Saline nasal irrigation
02
Intranasal corticosteroid sprays
03
Short-term decongestants and analgesics
04
Targeted antibiotic therapy when bacterial
05
Allergy treatment in atopic patients
06
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) in chronic disease

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.