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Department of Otolaryngology

Conditions We Treat

Sinusitis/Sinus Infection

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavities and usually occurs following a cold or allergy attack. Infection can occur when mucus is unable to properly drain into the nasal passages.

Symptoms of Sinusitis

Symptoms of sinusitis vary and are very similar to cold and flu symptoms. If you experience three or more of the following symptoms for more than 10-14 days, you should contact your physician:

  • Facial pressure or pain
  • Runny nose or sneezing
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Pain in upper teeth
  • Coughing
  • Nasal congestion

Children

Diagnosing sinusitis in children is a little more difficult since respiratory infections among children are quite common. Contact your child's doctor if he/she experiences the following:

  • A cold lasting more than 2 weeks
  • Fever
  • Thick yellow-green nasal drainage
  • Headache
  • Irritability or fatigue

Causes of Sinusitis

Acute or Bacterial Sinusitis

Acute or bacterial sinusitis is usually the result of an infection that started during a cold or an allergy attack. Although acute sinusitis usually requires an antibiotic, it usually clears up within three weeks.

Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis may occur in people who suffer from asthma or an allergic condition. It usually lasts for 3-8 weeks, but can continue for months.

Recurrent Sinusitis

Individuals who suffer from chronic sinusitis may also suffer from recurrent sinusitis, suffering several infections per year.

Diagnosing Sinusitis

If you experience three or more of the symptoms listed above, you should contact your physician. Your doctor can diagnose sinusitis through a list of your symptoms, a physical exam, and sometimes through an x-ray, MRI or CT scan.

Treatment Options

Acute or Bacterial Sinusitis

Acute sinusitis requires treatment with an antibiotic to kill the infection. To prevent resistance to the antibiotic, and to prevent further infection, be sure to take all of the medication just as your physician directs, even if you no longer experience symptoms.

Chronic Sinusitis

If acute sinusitis becomes chronic, you doctor may prescribe a more intensive round of antibiotics. Again, be sure to complete your prescription just as your doctors directs.

Surgery

In extreme circumstances where antibiotics fail to be effective, or if it is determined that a physical obstruction is contributing to the development of repeated infections, surgery may be required. More about sinus surgery