Sinusitis
ENTOverview
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, commonly presenting with thick nasal discharge, nasal congestion, and facial pain. Other symptoms include fever, headache, reduced sense of smell, sore throat, and cough that worsens at night. Cases lasting less than 4 weeks are acute, while those lasting over 12 weeks are chronic, and it may result from infection, allergy, air pollution, or structural nasal problems.
Symptoms
- Nasal congestion
- Purulent discharge
- Headache
- Facial pressure pain
- Reduced sense of smell
Treatment
Acute cases focus on anti-infective therapy and promoting sinus drainage, with saline nasal irrigation and antibiotics under medical guidance for bacterial infection; chronic cases may require surgery when necessary.
Dietary advice
Drink plenty of warm water, eat a light diet, take vitamin C in moderation, and avoid spicy and greasy foods.