What are the sinuses?

The sinuses are hollow cavities within the skull surrounded by the eyes, brain, nose and vital structures.

Sinusitis is the term to describe the inflammation\infection within the sinus lining and cavities.

Symptoms:

• Facial pain and pressure (4 finger headaches).
• Nasal blockage/Congestion.
• Nasal discharge (clear/thick, yellow or green).
• Reduced sense of smell/Hyposmia.
• Cough.
• Facial pain, upper teeth pain.
• Bad breath.
• Occasional fever.

Chronic sinusitis is having symptoms for more than 3 months.

Causes

Sinusitis can be caused by Viruses, Bacteria, Fungus or may be the result of Allergy and ends up with fluid becoming trapped in the sinuses.

Contributing factors are previous infections/common cold, nasal polyposis, anatomical obstruction such as septal deviation or tight openings of the nasal ostia and weak immunity.

Diagnosis

Is usually done by an ENT specialist who will use the Endoscope inside the nose to confirm findings. The most accurate tool for diagnosis is a C-T scan and if a tumor is suspected, should be coupled with an MRI.

Surgery

Surgery should always be the last resort especially in children, however if there are structural obstructive problems (septal deviation/tight sinus openings/chronic sinusitis…) then surgery is a must.

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is the main procedure used for treatment, done totally by the endoscope without external incisions and maybe coupled with a septoplasty.

Treatment may still be required following surgery to prevent recurrence of sinusitis especially in patients with nasal Polyposis.