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2-29. SINUSITIS
Inflammation of a sinus may be acute or chronic. It usually occurs with other upper respiratory infections since mucous membranes of the nasal cavities are continuous with the sinuses. Sinusitis may also occur from obstructions that block drainage from the sinuses. An untreated acute sinusitis may become chronic or may lead to a more serious condition such as brain abscess, meningitis, or septicemia.
a. Sinusitis is characterized by pain and nasal congestion. The location of the pain is diagnostically important. Frontal pain or headache indicates frontal sinus involvement. Pain in and around the eyes is associated with the ethmoid sinuses. Maxillary sinusitis is characterized by pain lateral to the nose, sometimes accompanied by aching in the upper teeth. In sphenoid sinusitis, an occipital headache may occur.
b. Treatment involves rest and measures to facilitate sinus drainage. Increased humidity, increased fluid intake, and steam inhalation will help to liquify and loosen secretions. Nasal and/or oral use of vasoconstricting drugs is indicated. Antihistimines and antibiotics may also be used depending upon the causative agents involved.
