Acute Sinusitis
What you should know about Acute Sinusitis
What is acute sinusitis?
Acute sinusitis, also known as a sinus infection or rhinosinusitis, refers to inflammation and infection in one or more of the paranasal sinuses.
It often occurs after a cold, when mucus gets trapped in inflamed sinuses and does not drain properly. This condition encourages bacterial growth, or rarely fungal growth, that can lead to infection.
Sinusitis affects is one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor.
It is acute when in the early stages, from 1 to 4 weeks after symptoms start. Subacute or chronic sinusitis has symptoms that last longer than 1 month.
Who gets it?
Anyone can get sinusitis, but it is more common in very young people and elderly people.
People with nasal allergies or asthma have an increased risk for sinusitis.
Smoking, swimming, air travel, and dental problems are factors that increase risk for sinusitis.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Symptoms include a headache, congestion with pus in the nose, facial pressure and pain, postnasal drip, cough, sore throat, and fatigue.
A fever lasting more than 3 to 4 days is suggestive of a bacterial infection.
What is the difference between a cold and acute sinusitis?
A cold is caused by a virus and usually lasts about 1 week. Persons with symptoms of acute sinusitis for less than 1 week are still usually only infected with a virus.
Acute bacterial sinusitis generally occurs after symptoms have persisted for 7 to 10 days.
How do you know if you have acute sinusitis?
Your doctor will make the diagnosis based on your symptoms and a physical examination.
In complicated, severe, or persistent cases, x-rays or computed tomography may be needed. A sample of sinus fluid may need to be obtained by a specialist to identify the exact strain of bacteria causing the sinusitis.
How is it treated?
Resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and using a saline spray or neti pot can reduce symptoms.
Decongestants, antihistamines, and other over-the-couonter medications may also reduce symptoms.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if your doctor believes your symptoms and the duration of the disease warrant this treatment.
