Sinusitis

Inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the sinus cavities. It causes increased mucus secretion and swelling, hindering the drainage of this mucus. Untreated long-lasting sinusitis can be a cause of infection.

The following factors contribute to the development of sinusitis: blockage of the openings of the sinuses into the nasal cavity; dysfunction of tiny hair-like structures on the surface of the mucous membrane (these hairs ensure the drainage of secretions from the sinus cavity); excessive mucus production. When the openings of the sinuses into the nasal cavity are blocked, mucus accumulates, creating favorable conditions for bacteria and other microorganisms.

Sinusitis is most commonly caused by bacterial or fungal infection.

Risk factors for sinusitis: allergies – allergic inflammation can cause swelling of the mucous membrane, hyperproduction of mucus; deviated nasal septum, polyps; foreign body in the nasal cavity; frequent swimming or diving; air pollution, tobacco smoke; certain disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), cystic fibrosis, HIV, chemotherapy; dental infections.

Most common symptoms of sinusitis: facial pain or pressure, especially one-sided; pain behind the eyes; fever; decreased or complete loss of smell, decreased sense of taste; nasal congestion; nasal discharge; difficulty breathing through the nose; cough (usually worse at night); fatigue; toothache; feeling of fullness, pressure in the ear. With sinusitis, the skin over the affected sinuses may become red. Swelling around the eyes is possible. Pain is felt when pressing on the sinuses.

Treatment of sinusitis: it is necessary to treat inflammation of the nasal and sinus mucosa so that mucus can drain from the sinuses unobstructed. Various measures can be used for this purpose: nasal irrigation solutions, steroid nasal sprays, antibiotics, decongestants, etc.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė