How to identify and treat acute sinusitis? Acute sinusitis: symptoms and treatment Sinus eyes

Inflammation of the sinuses is called sinusitis. This is a whole group of diseases, the name of each of which depends on the location of the infection in a particular sinus. This publication is devoted to such issues as the symptoms of sinusitis in adults, treatment of the disease, its characteristics in children and the causes of the disease.

What is sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses and nasal passages, also called sinusitis. The infection may cause headaches, pressure in the eyes, nose, cheeks, or on one side of the head. Sinusitis in adults may also include a cough, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and a sore throat. Sinusitis, the symptoms and treatment of which are discussed further, is divided into two main categories - acute and chronic. Sinusitis is quite common.

Acute sinusitis, as a rule, lasts no more than 7-8 weeks and occurs at intervals of two to three times a year, each time lasting about ten days. There are many medications that are effective in the fight against acute sinusitis. Successful and timely treatment prevents damage to the mucous membrane of the sinuses and nearby skull bones. Chronic sinusitis usually lasts more than two months. Their exacerbations occur with a frequency of four to five times a year, and symptoms can last more than 20 days.

Anatomy of the sinuses

The nasal area consists of four pairs of hollow bones that form the paranasal sinuses. They reduce the weight of the skull, allow the voice to resonate, and promote insulation.

The four main pairs of sinuses include:

• frontal;
• maxillary;
• ethmoid sinuses;
• wedge-shaped.

The surface of the paranasal sinuses is covered with a mucous membrane with cells equipped with tiny hairs. They trap bacteria and dust particles inhaled from outside.

Causes

Acute sinusitis usually develops due to a viral infection entering the upper respiratory tract. However, various allergens and pollutants can also cause acute sinusitis. The viral infection damages the cells of the sinus tissue and leads to inflammation. The tissue becomes inflamed, thickens, and the nasal passage narrows. Such an obstacle further disrupts the natural process of cleansing and removing bacteria and impurities, therefore, having accumulated there, microorganisms begin to multiply and affect the mucous membrane of the sinuses. This causes sinusitis symptoms in adults and children, and allergens and dust can have a similar effect.

What microorganisms cause sinusitis?

Bacteria that most often provoke sinusitis:

• pneumococcal streptococcus Streptococcus pneumonia;
• golden;
• Haemophilus influenza, or Pfeiffer's bacillus;
• gram-negative diplococcus Moraxella catarrhalis.

Fungi are also an increasingly common cause of chronic sinusitis, especially in people with diseases that compromise the immune system: AIDS, diabetes and leukemia.

Symptoms and signs

So, sinusitis is a condition in which the paranasal sinuses become inflamed and cause breathing problems. Respiratory disorders, in turn, lead to a loss of energy in a person and create a general feeling of illness for several days.

Chronic purulent sinusitis is an inflammation that has been present in the sinuses for a long time, which from time to time, under certain conditions, makes itself felt with exacerbations. Chronic sinusitis significantly reduces a person’s energy level, undermining normal health. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis include a lack of free and complete breathing due to blocked sinuses. As a result, not enough oxygen enters the lungs, the person becomes tired, and dizziness occurs. These symptoms may be accompanied by a dull headache.

Acute sinusitis may involve fever, severe headache, sometimes leading to vomiting. Most often, one of the sinuses is the main one, more inflamed. If the infection has settled in the sphenoid sinus, then it is sphenoid sinusitis, which is very difficult to diagnose. This type of disease is manifested by dull headaches that can last for several days in a row.

Ethmoid sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, which are located in the anterior, middle and posterior parts of the ethmoid bone. Symptoms of this form of sinusitis include pain in the area around the eyes and temples. Nasal congestion and inability to breathe occur, which is a common symptom of all types of sinusitis. Fungal sinusitis often manifests itself as nasal congestion, fever, sore throat, and a feeling of nausea. Symptoms and treatment of the disease are determined by which sinuses are involved in the inflammatory process and what form of sinusitis is chronic or acute.

Signs of acute sinusitis

The table below lists the main symptoms of acute sinusitis for each type of disease. It is worth noting that acute sinusitis is characterized by severe nasal congestion and headaches.

Signs of chronic sinusitis

The table below discusses the main characteristic symptoms of different types of chronic sinusitis.

Treatment

Treatment of chronic sinusitis can be carried out through the use of antibiotics, but you need to remember their side effects and entrust the choice and duration of treatment to your doctor. There are different methods and treatments that can help relieve the discomfort caused by sinusitis. For example, removing secretions from the sinuses clears the nasal cavity and resumes normal breathing.

It is the most famous and ancient method of treating acute forms of the disease. Sinusitis is a pathology that can also be treated with inhalations. Treatment of sinusitis, ethmoid, sphenoid and bacterial sinusitis should be carried out only according to the prescriptions and recommendations of an ENT doctor. Antibiotics for sinusitis are also prescribed by the doctor.

Drink more clean water and hot herbal tea. Inhale steam while bending over a container of hot water or a decoction of chamomile, oak bark or sage for 10 minutes daily - this is an effective remedy if you have chronic sinusitis. Reviews from people say that hot showers and regular baths have a beneficial effect. All of these methods help drain mucus and pus from the sinuses.

Among the drugs, Guaifenesin helps to effectively expel mucus from the respiratory tract. You can also combine decongestants and antitussives. Painkillers such as Asibuprofen, Aspirin, Andnaproxen will help relieve pain. They not only relieve pain, but also reduce inflammation. The drug “Acetaminophen” has proven itself well, the action of which is aimed at pain relief and overcoming fever.

Sinusitis in children

Chronic sinusitis in a child brings significant discomfort, since the inability to breathe freely is one of the worst conditions. In addition to this symptom, the occurrence of a headache and heaviness in the face causes a constant feeling of malaise and fatigue in the child. Acute sinusitis is easy to diagnose, but it is often confused with a cold. Treatment should be carried out strictly as prescribed by the doctor. Since self-medication can only cause harm, causing the development of chronic sinusitis.

Symptoms of sinusitis in children are often similar to those in adults, but headaches and difficulty breathing can often be more severe. Treatment of sinusitis in children is determined by the doctor based on symptoms and diagnosis. However, surgical intervention is not recommended until the basic methods bring positive results and success. Antibiotics for sinusitis in children are not recommended as a means of therapy, since they can harm the body that has not yet become stronger. However, if necessary, the doctor can still prescribe acceptable antibacterial drugs. This is especially true for sinusitis, infections in which were provoked by bacterial microorganisms.

If symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines and decongestants to help your child breathe easier. Sinusitis caused by a viral infection in most cases goes away on its own without becoming chronic. At home, you can also try using a warm compress on the sinus area.

Change your lifestyle

Even though sinusitis is not considered life-threatening, it can still cause a lot of pain and discomfort if left untreated. Simple lifestyle changes can help your child regain health, breathe freely, and manage pain faster. We offer some recommendations that will be useful.

Use a humidifier in your home and keep the humidity at 40-50%. This will prevent the formation of dry air, which irritates the sinuses. Keep it clean. Do wet cleaning regularly and ventilate the room. Teach your child to observe personal hygiene rules.

If you smoke, find the strength to give up this harmful and negative habit. Passive exposure to tobacco smoke to the mucous membranes of the nose and sinuses, as well as to the lungs, can lead not only to sinusitis, but also to other, more serious health problems.

Try to limit your child's exposure to various respiratory irritants and environmental allergens, especially in the early stages of his life. Certain foods can make sinusitis symptoms worse, such as cold drinks.

Inhalation treatment

As a natural means of traditional medicine for the treatment of sinusitis, inhalations are probably in first place. You can breathe over solutions of various products and products in hot water. We list the most effective of them:

• dry menthol;
• potato decoction;
• chamomile;
• decoctions of lavender and coltsfoot;
• yarrow;
• plantain;
• propolis tincture;
• St. John's wort;
• regular baking soda;
• eucalyptus leaves or eucalyptus oil 3-4 drops per 1 liter of water;
• natural flower honey.

Compresses and ointments

For compresses, which are also useful, you can use softened hot beeswax, crushed garlic or radish, wrapped in gauze. You can also prepare natural nasal drops from such products as honey and aloe leaf juice, rosemary oil tincture, purified birch tar, a mixture of tea and eucalyptus tincture.

The sinus area can be lubricated with homemade ointments and mixtures. The best compositions are:

• sea ​​salt and fat;
• vegetable oil, wax and propolis;
• alcohol tincture of aloe leaves, celandine and red pepper;
• honey, onion juice and vegetable oil.

All of the folk remedies listed are effective and useful only if the attending physician’s instructions in the main area of ​​therapy and regularity of use are followed.

What is sinusitis? Sinusitis disease is an infectious-inflammatory process of the paranasal sinuses and nasal mucosa. Inflammation affects the tissues of the paranasal areas on one or both sides of the organ. The accessory nasal cavities are small in size and located in the facial and cerebral parts of the skull. They communicate with the nose. A characteristic clinical manifestation of the disease is inflammation of the mucosal epithelium lining the nasal cavity.

There are four nasal cavities:

• Frontal sinus;
• Maxillary sinus;
• Lattice labyrinth;
• Sphenoid unpaired sinus.

The inflammatory process can be diagnosed in various areas. Most often the lesion affects the maxillary sinuses. The sphenoid sinus rarely becomes inflamed. At the first signs of damage, you need to seek help from an otolaryngologist.

Classification of sinusitis

There are different types of sinusitis:

• Sinusitis;
• Ethmoiditis;
• Sphenoiditis;
• Frontit.

Sinusitis is an inflammatory process of one or both maxillary adnexal cavities. The course of the disease can be acute, subacute and chronic. Sinusitis is characterized by severe pain, high fever, and accumulation of pus in the sinuses. The symptoms of sinusitis are obvious. There is severe pain in the affected maxillary sinus, which radiates to the frontal part, temple, and jaw. Bilateral sinusitis is characterized by nasal congestion. There is a blockage of the tear ducts, causing tearing. A cloudy, viscous and purulent exudate is released from the nostrils. The patient suffers from fever and chills, general weakness.

With sinusitis, the patient is bothered by a night cough, swelling of the nasal cavities, and swelling of the face. The outflow of mucus from the maxillary sinuses is disrupted. The pain is pressing or bursting. Odontogenic sinusitis is characterized by the discharge of purulent discharge from the nasal passages and increased pain when pressing on the nasal cavity.

Ethmoiditis is a pathology affecting the cells of the ethmoid labyrinth. Signs of the disease are pressing pain, swelling of the nose, serous-purulent discharge. When the posterior parts of the labyrinth become inflamed, sphenoiditis occurs. Inflammation affects the epithelium of the nasal mucosa. The disease provokes conjunctivitis and swelling of the eyelids. Acute sinusitis causes headache. The process has an adverse effect on the eyeballs.

Frontitis is a lesion of the frontal sinuses. Severe pressing pain is felt in the frontal part of the skull, which intensifies in the morning. This form of the disease is characterized by fever, accumulation of purulent exudate in the frontal cavities, and nasal congestion. There is pain in the eyes and decreased sense of smell. In the chronic course of the disease, hypertrophy of the epithelium of nasal tissue develops. The process can spread to the bone structure. Complications of sinusitis include the appearance of fistulas and necrotic areas.

With sphenoiditis, damage to the ethmoidal labyrinth and an inflammatory process in the sphenoid sinus are observed. Localization of severe painful sensations occurs in the occipital part, in the area of ​​the orbit and crown. Inflammation affects the optic nerve. These complications of sinusitis are dangerous and require immediate medical intervention.

Reasons for the development of sinusitis

Blockage of the nasal anastomosis occurs for various reasons. The disease develops due to infection, congenital anomalies, nasal trauma, hypertrophic rhinitis, and poorly performed surgical intervention.

Sinusitis is caused by various pathogens:

• Pfeiffer wand;
• Pneumococci;
• Streptococci;
• Staphylococcus aureus;
• Anaerobic bacteria;
• Mushrooms;
• Viruses.

The disease develops as a result of mycosis, hypothermia of the body. A runny nose often affects children. You can get sick as a result of contact with an infected patient or from inhaling aggressive substances in a hazardous workplace. Improper dental treatment leads to purulent inflammation of the maxillary sinus.

The disease causes a decrease in immunity during colds, the use of antibiotics, and deformation of the nasal structures. The addition of a secondary infection aggravates the condition of the sick person and contributes to the occurrence of serious complications. The causes of sinusitis also lie in incorrectly performed medical procedures in the clinic. Inflammation can be caused by probing of the nasal cavities, as well as other diagnostic and treatment methods.

Symptoms of sinusitis in adults are observed with smoking abuse. Chronic sinusitis is caused by adenoids and polyps, anomalies of the nasal turbinates. Many genetic diseases contribute to the development of the inflammatory process. Risk factors include diabetes, allergic diathesis, use of steroid drugs, diseases of the jaw and teeth.

Symptoms of sinusitis

The inflammatory process of the nasal cavities is characterized by:

• Swelling;
• Narrowing of the anastomosis of the organ;
• Discharge of large amounts of mucus from the nasal passages;
• Increased body temperature;
• Poor ventilation of the paranasal sinuses;
• Difficulty in nasal breathing;
• Tearing;
• General weakness;
• Decreased appetite;
• Nasal congestion and dryness;
• Sneezing;
• Cough;
• Decreased sense of smell;
• Headache;
• Lack of oxygen in sinus tissues;
• Purulent discharge;
• Changes in the membranes of the mucous membrane of the cavity.

Favorable conditions for the life of pathogenic microorganisms contribute to the further spread of infection. Complications of sinusitis are difficult to treat, so it is important not to start the inflammatory process.

Types of sinusitis

Bacterial sinusitis is caused by exposure to pathogenic flora. Characteristic forms of the disease:

• Catarrhal;
• Serous;
• Productive;
• Choleastomic;
• Atrophic;
• Polypous;
• Cystic;
• Hyperplastic;
• Exudative;
• Purulent;
• Necrotic;
• Mixed.

Viral sinusitis can be unilateral or bilateral. In the first version, inflammation occurs in the right or left part of the organ. With bilateral development, the pathology affects paired zones. If several accessory cavities become inflamed, polysinusitis develops.

Allergic sinusitis is caused by exposure to allergen particles and affects the lining of the sinuses. A severe form of the runny nose affects all parts of the organ. Chronic sinusitis is difficult to cure and is fraught with intracranial complications.

Fungal sinusitis requires correct diagnosis of the causative agent of the disease. Not all medications have a detrimental effect on the pathogenic organism. Unexpressed symptoms do not allow one to correctly determine that the disease is caused by fungi. A runny nose is commonly called “infectious sinusitis” and affects the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract.

Cystic sinusitis is characterized by the formation of cysts. The nasal mucosa consists of a large number of glands that secrete a special substrate. When swelling occurs, the ducts become blocked and the glands become blocked. Fluid begins to accumulate in the excretory ducts. Various types of cysts begin to form. Cystic formations include mucus or pus.

Diagnosis of sinusitis

Modern medicine offers various effective ways to detect the disease. The doctor will quickly diagnose sinusitis and be able to monitor the further course of the disease. Timely diagnosis will prevent further development of the disease. Many methods and studies can determine catarrhal sinusitis:

• X-ray of the paranasal cavities;
• Rhinoscopy:
• Ultrasound of the nasal sinuses;
• Diaphanoscopy;
• CT scan.

Each method has its own advantages and allows you to identify disorders in organ cavities, tissue deformation and accumulation of pus.

Laboratory tests are performed:

• Bacteriological culture of mucopurulent nasal discharge;
• Biochemical blood tests;
• Determination of microflora sensitivity to antibiotics.

Differential diagnosis of sinusitis helps to determine the causative agent of the disease, the form of the disease, its stage and prescribe the correct drug therapy.

Why is sinusitis dangerous?

The inflammatory process can affect bones and brain tissue. The infection can penetrate deep into the tissue, so the consequences of sinusitis are extremely severe.

In acute and chronic course of the disease, the following are diagnosed:

• Optic neuritis;
• Meningitis;
• Abscess of brain tissue;
• Osteomyelitis;
• Sinus thrombophlebitis;
• Tissue thrombosis;
• Periostitis of the orbit.

These diseases are difficult to treat and can be fatal. Many doctors give a favorable prognosis for recovery, depending on the form and course of the disease.

Treatment of sinusitis

Therapy is aimed at eliminating symptoms and destroying the pathogen. It is important to prevent further development of sinusitis and complications. Complex treatment with antibiotics, vasoconstrictors and antihistamines is used. Additionally, sinus rinsing is prescribed. The following are used in treatment:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Sulfa drugs;
• Nasal vasoconstrictor drops and sprays;
• Corticosteroids;
• Physiotherapy;
• Folk remedies.

Acute sinusitis requires the prescription of an antibiotic. Medicines of the cephalosporin or penicillin groups are often used. Treatment of sinusitis includes the use of nasal medications Rinofluimucil, Vibrocil, Pinosol, Isofra, Bioparox.

The nose is washed with saline solutions Aqualor Forte, Aquamoris, Moreal Plus. Sinusitis in children requires regular sanitation of the nasal passages and their cleansing of purulent mucous exudate. The drugs used for sinusitis are Physiomer, Aqualor Extra, and Sinupret. The products have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

Bilateral sinusitis is treated with special effective antibacterial and homeopathic medicines of the latest generation. The modern medicine Euphorbium compositum has proven itself well in therapy. The product moisturizes the nasal mucosa and is not addictive.

Physiotherapy procedures will help to cope with the disease - heating the nasal cavities with UHF, quartz, electrophoresis, paraffin. At home, you can warm your nose with hot salt. In the absence of high temperature, steam inhalations with essential oils and decoctions of medicinal plants are prescribed. The procedures facilitate nasal breathing, promote the outflow of mucus and thin the exudate.

Additionally, treatment with folk remedies is carried out. To relieve inflammation, aloe juice, propolis, garlic and onion drops are used. Rinsing the nasal sinuses with herbal decoctions of chamomile, calendula, dandelion, linden promotes a speedy recovery. It is necessary to clear the secretions from each nostril in turn. After rinsing, vasoconstrictor drops are instilled into the nasal passages.

How to treat sinusitis during pregnancy? During pregnancy, the use of antibiotics is not always advisable. Exposure to many medications can cause irreversible damage to the further development of the fetus. Therapy is prescribed only by the attending physician. Sinusitis during pregnancy is treated with safe nasal sprays and drops that do not contain hormones or harmful substances. Folk remedies of alternative medicine are used. When treating a runny nose, it is important to consider the benefits and harms for the expectant mother and child.

Prevention of sinusitis

To prevent the development of the disease, it is necessary to promptly get rid of measles, flu, infections, and scarlet fever. In some cases, correction of the nasal septum is required.

Preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy indoor microclimate;
• Strengthening immunity;
• Treatment of dental diseases;
• Daily wet cleaning;
• Regular walks in the fresh air;
• Maintaining a proper diet;
• Gymnastics classes.

Compliance with medical recommendations and preventive measures will allow you to quickly defeat acute sinusitis and prevent the chronic course of the disease. The use of homeopathic remedies allows you to stabilize the immune system and strengthen the body's defenses. As a result, resistance to colds and viral diseases that cause the development of a runny nose increases.

Sinusitis is a disease characterized by acute or chronic inflammation, concentrated in the area of ​​the sinuses (paranasal sinuses), which, in fact, determines its name. Sinusitis, the symptoms of which we will consider below, mainly develops against the background of an ordinary viral or bacterial infection, as well as allergies and, in some cases, against the background of a microplasma or fungal infection.

general description

Let us dwell, first of all, on what the sinuses are as an area of ​​interest to us in the context of the disease under consideration. Sinuses are small cavities concentrated within the thickness of the bones of the skull. Each person has seven sinuses (paranasal sinuses): frontal sinuses (2), maxillary sinuses (2), ethmoid sinuses and sphenoid sinus.

Each of the sinuses is lined with a mucous membrane, and all of them communicate with the nasal cavity. Note that the possibility of such communication plays an extremely important role in ensuring a normal state for the paranasal sinuses. If, as a result of the influence of certain factors, the canal connecting the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus is closed (which in particular can happen, for example, due to swelling of the nasal mucosa due to a runny nose), then this leads to the absorption of air into the blood from a generally sealed sinus. In this case, the sinus itself begins to fill with inflammatory fluid, and in it, in turn, bacteria begin to rapidly multiply.

The paranasal sinuses perform extremely important functions, and they are as follows:

• formation of the facial skeleton, facial features and voice timbre;
• properly warming the air so that it can then pass through the nose.

It is noteworthy that the mucous membrane of the sinuses is just as predisposed to infection by various types of infection as the mucous membrane of the nose, and this predisposition also concerns the possibility of inflammation. Actually, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses, which we noted earlier, is sinusitis.

Forms of sinusitis

With sinusitis, compared to normal sinusitis, which is accompanied by the involvement of predominantly the entire nasal mucosa in the inflammatory process, the infection mainly affects one paranasal sinus or several sinuses. Based on the specific sinus affected by inflammation, the specific form of sinusitis is determined.

• – accompanied by predominant inflammation of one of the maxillary sinuses (in some cases, inflammation of both sinuses becomes a possible option);
• – the inflammatory process is concentrated in the area of ​​one frontal sinus or both sinuses;
• – the inflammatory process is concentrated in the area of ​​the sphenoid sinus;
• – the inflammatory process is concentrated within the ethmoid sinuses (cells).

Acute sinusitis can provoke the development of sinusitis, which, in turn, is accompanied by extremely severe pain in the facial area.

Often, a complication of chronic sinusitis is the formation of an abscess in the form of a closed type of cavity, inside of which there is pus.

When sinusitis occurs against the background of a chronic form of sinusitis, atrophy of the nasal mucosa can occur, which, in turn, leads to loss of smell.

As a rule, patients with sinusitis, and especially with its chronic form, undergo long-term and unsuccessful treatment for other diseases/causes that provoke a constant (chronic) cough.

Frontal sinusitis (frontal sinusitis): symptoms

With frontal sinusitis, the frontal paranasal sinus is subject to inflammation, in particular, the process is concentrated within the mucous membrane that lines the frontal sinus. The course of frontal sinusitis can be acute or chronic.

The acute form of frontal sinusitis is accompanied by sharp pain that occurs in the forehead area. In addition, headache (in a different area of ​​localization), lacrimation, pain in the eyes, difficulty in nasal breathing, and photophobia are noted. From the corresponding half of the nose there is abundant, odorless discharge. The temperature is about 39 degrees, but can be lower (low-grade fever). Swelling may occur in the soft tissues.

Chronic frontal sinusitis is somewhat less pronounced in its manifestations. So, the headache in this case is aching or pressing, it is mainly localized on the side of the affected sinus. If the outflow of exudate is difficult, as well as with increased pressure noted in the sinus, the pain, accordingly, intensifies; pressure on the orbit (its inner corner or inner wall) may be accompanied by sharp pain. As for the symptom that is relevant for this disease in the form of nasal discharge, it is especially abundant in the morning, and is often characterized by an unpleasant odor. During sleep, they flow down to the nasopharynx during sleep, resulting in expectoration of a significant amount of sputum in the morning.

Complications of frontal sinusitis (mainly in chronic form) often boil down to the transition of inflammation to the frontal sinus, that is, to its anterior bone wall, resulting in subsequent necrosis, sequestration and the formation of a fistula. Somewhat less frequently, the spread of the process passes to the lower wall, as a result of which the tissues of the orbit are subject to inflammation, and due to the involvement of the posterior wall in this process, intracranial complications develop (extradural abscess or meningitis). May also develop.

Sphenoiditis (sphenoidal sinusitis): symptoms

This disease implies inflammation of the mucous membrane, this time affecting the sphenoid sinus, which, as in previous types of sinusitis, develops against the background of exposure to a bacterial or viral infection. This disease occurs in practice infrequently and, as a rule, is caused by the prevalence of inflammation from the posterior cells of the ethmoid labyrinth.

Sphenoiditis can occur in acute or chronic form. Acute sphenoiditis is accompanied by nasal discharge and a headache characteristic of sinusitis, which, as a rule, is concentrated in the occipital region (much less often in the parietal, temporal or frontal). Symptoms such as a disorder of smell also appear, there is an increase in temperature and general weakness. As a possible complication, as noted earlier, the possibility of inflammation spreading to the orbit and skull is determined, as a result of which the optic nerve is damaged, meningitis, abscess and other related processes develop.

The transition to the chronic form of sphenoiditis occurs against the background of the acute form of this disease. Its main symptomatology is reduced to the appearance of headache (parietal, in some cases - occipital). The patient may also experience an unpleasant odor due to the opening of the sphenoid sinus opening to the olfactory nasal part.

Ethmoiditis (ethmoidal sinusitis): symptoms

Ethmoiditis is an inflammatory process concentrated in the area of ​​the mucous membrane of the ethmoid bone (the shell of its cells). The disease occurs against the background of bacterial or viral influence, and can occur in acute or chronic form.

Symptoms of acute ethmoiditis often occur with ordinary rhinitis, etc. diseases. The main symptom is headache, as well as pain in the area of ​​the bridge of the nose and the root of the nose. If the pain occurs mainly from the inner edge of the orbit, as well as the root of the nose, then in this case we can talk about damage to the posterior cells of the said bone, which is directly affected by the disease in question.

Nasal breathing is often difficult, and nasal breathing may be impaired or completely absent. Gradually, the general condition only worsens, which is accompanied by an increase in temperature to about 38 degrees.

The first days of the course of the disease are characterized by the appearance of copious nasal discharge, as a rule, at this time they have no odor, but subsequently a change in their character is noted - they become serous-purulent or purulent, which is accompanied by a change in color and the acquisition of a certain smell.

Ethmoiditis in children is often accompanied by hyperemia and swelling of the inner corner of the orbit, as well as the inner part of the lower and upper eyelids.

Primary acute ethmoiditis is accompanied by the most pronounced changes in the general condition of patients. The onset of the disease is accompanied by a sudden increase in temperature to 40 degrees, regurgitation and vomiting, and general anxiety.

Acute secondary ethmoiditis is characterized by increased severity of manifestations and gradual progression. Already by the third day, complications of this disease are noted. These in particular include destruction that occurs in parts of the bone walls, the formation of empyema, which can result in a breakthrough of pus to the tissue of the orbit (in some cases into the cranial cavity). When the process spreads to the orbit, visual disturbances are observed, in which the field of vision narrows, its acuity decreases, etc. If we are talking about intracranial complications when pus breaks through, then they consist of meningitis, brain abscess, .

As for the chronic form of ethmoiditis, it occurs against the background of an acute form of the disease, developing, as a rule, in those patients in whom the body's resistance is significantly reduced and in those for whom the effectiveness of treatment is determined to be insufficient. Symptoms of the chronic form are identified based on the overall degree of inflammatory activity. Patients experience increased fatigue and deterioration in their overall condition, and their performance decreases. Exacerbation of the chronic form occurs with symptoms relevant for the acute form.

Acute sinusitis: symptoms

The clinic of acute sinusitis is characterized by signs of an inflammatory process of a general and local scale. Symptoms such as headache, general malaise, fever and weakness can be identified as manifestations of a general reaction. A blood test determines the corresponding changes in the blood. The listed symptoms are generally not specific, and therefore the diagnosis of the disease is based on the manifestations of the disease on a local scale.

The most common complaints relevant to acute sinusitis are difficulties associated with nasal breathing, headache, pathological nasal and nasopharyngeal discharge, as well as a disorder of smell.

Most often, the headache is concentrated in the frontotemporal region, and it is possible that it intensifies when tilting the head. If the sphenoid sinus is affected, then a very characteristic symptom appears, which is expressed in the so-called night headaches, which determines their nature, as well as localization - in this case it lies in the center of the head, as well as in the back of the head. In some situations there are no complaints of headaches.

As for the difficulty of nasal breathing in the disease under consideration, it develops against the background of actual obstruction of the nasal passages, which occurs against the background of hyperplasia or swelling of the mucous membrane and due to the formation of pathological secretion in the nasal passages. As a rule, damage to nasal breathing on a specific side corresponds to the same side of the sinuses.

Based on the severity of the symptoms characteristic of acute sinusitis, the peculiarity of the course of the disease as a whole is determined - in particular, acute sinusitis can be mild, moderate and severe.

ABOUT mild flow diseases can be considered in the absence of radiological and local signs indicating sinusitis, or with a minimal degree of severity of signs of intoxication in combination with headache and localization of pain from the sinuses that have undergone inflammatory damage. This form of the disease is accompanied mainly by normal or low-grade fever.

Moderate course Acute sinusitis is accompanied by moderate manifestations of intoxication while simultaneously moderating the manifestation of pain, which, again, is concentrated in the area of ​​the affected sinuses in combination with headache. The temperature in this state rises to 38-38.5 degrees, and slightly pronounced reactive phenomena are also possible in the form of edema of the eyelid, swelling in the area of ​​the paranasal sinuses, affecting soft tissues.

For severe form Sinusitis is characterized by symptoms in the form of intoxication, severe headache and pain from the affected walls of the sinuses. The temperature during this period exceeds 38.5 degrees. The possibility of developing complications becomes relevant.

Chronic sinusitis: symptoms

The transition to chronic sinusitis occurs in the case of unfinished acute inflammatory processes, their undertreatment or complete absence of treatment. In particular, the transition to such a course is relevant when one of the functions of the sinuses is disrupted, as well as under unfavorable conditions affecting their ability to aerate and to outflow pathologically formed secretions.

It is noteworthy that the microflora that provokes the chronic course of the inflammatory process of the paranasal sinuses can have a very different character, being both highly pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic or saprophytic.

Chronic sinusitis also has its own classification, built on the basis of its histomorphological features in combination with its inherent clinical manifestations.

• Exudative form:
• catarrhal chronic sinusitis;
• serous chronic sinusitis;
• purulent chronic sinusitis.
• Productive form:
• parietal hyperplastic chronic sinusitis;
• polypous sinusitis.
• Alternative form:
• atrophic chronic sinusitis;
• cholesteatoma chronic sinusitis.
• Mixed form (or polypous-purulent).

In general, considering chronic sinusitis, it can be noted that children are mainly susceptible to the disease in this form. Chronic sinusitis in children, as a rule, occurs against the background of diseases such as acute rhinitis, influenza, etc.

The main danger of this disease in a chronic form is that it leads to a significant decrease in protective forces, as a result of which young patients become even more susceptible to a number of diseases, of which, first of all, respiratory diseases (pharyngitis, etc.) can be distinguished. ). In general, chronic sinusitis in children has its own characteristics for each of the individual age groups.

For example, children of early and preschool age are faced with fairly pronounced general symptoms that prevail over local symptoms. In particular, a low-grade fever can be identified here, which is maintained over a long period of time. In addition, lethargy and weight loss are noted, sleep and appetite worsen. Children quickly get tired, they develop cervical lymphadenitis, blueness appears under the eyes, and a cough is also noted. Against the background of the general condition, irritability and moodiness appear; in frequent cases, keratitis and recurrent conjunctivitis develop. As a result of the listed symptoms, the patients' condition is defined as chronic sinusogenic intoxication.

The clinical picture of sinusitis in older children differs slightly from the course of this disease in adults. Manifestations of a subjective scale are expressed in this case somewhat less than in the case of acute sinusitis. The disease is also characterized by a long course with frequent exacerbations. There are complaints about difficulty in nasal breathing, headaches of various types, which occur mainly in the second half of the day. Nasal secretion increases, the sense of smell decreases, and patients quickly get tired.

Diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis

Diagnosis of the form and characteristics of the course of the disease is made on the basis of a general medical history, as well as the results of examinations in combination with radiography, tomography of the facial part and the sinuses in particular.

Treatment may include conservative or surgical therapy.

Conservative therapy consists of taking medications aimed at reducing swelling of the nasal mucosa, as well as improving outflow from the paranasal sinuses. This includes local vasoconstrictor drugs (duration of use no more than several days). Antibacterial medications and antihistamines are also used. Nasal rinses are performed using antiseptic solutions. The use of physiotherapy procedures is relevant.

As for surgical treatment, it comes down to washing the nasal cavity followed by puncture (puncture) of the maxillary or frontal sinuses. Due to puncture, the pressure in the sinuses is reduced, as a result of which material for culture can also be obtained. Subsequently, anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics are injected into the sinus.

If the listed measures also turn out to be ineffective, which is accompanied by corresponding complications in the form of meningitis, etc., then surgical intervention is performed in a more active manner.

The ENT organs, being an outpost of the immune system on the path of infection into the body, are the first to encounter the effects of various pathogens. That is why inflammatory processes often begin in them. Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses is called sinusitis . In total, a person has 4 pairs of paranasal sinuses, these are cavities filled with air. As a result of inflammatory processes, pus is formed in the sinuses, and the person begins to feel weak and unwell.

Nasal endoscopy in MedicCity

Nasal endoscopy in MedicCity

Rhinoscopy in MedicCity

Why is sinusitis dangerous?

Symptoms of sinusitis

There are acute and chronic forms of sinusitis, which differ in their symptoms.

Acute sinusitis. Symptoms:

• Runny nose lasting more than 7-10 days, without signs of improvement;
• nasal congestion, mucous or purulent discharge from the nose;
• mucus running down the back of the throat, copious discharge of purulent sputum in the morning;
• headache, heaviness and pain in the inflamed sinus area. Sometimes pain in the teeth, eyes, cheekbones, cheeks;
• increased sensitivity of the facial skin in the projection of the affected sinus;
• increase in body temperature (up to 38°C and above). As a rule, this symptom is observed in an acute case. In a chronic process, body temperature rarely rises or remains at subfebrile levels (37-37.50°C);
• weakness, fatigue, irritability. Photophobia, lacrimation, loss of appetite, sleep disturbance;
• weakened or absent sense of smell;
• swelling of the cheeks and eyelids.

Chronic sinusitis. Symptoms:

Symptoms of chronic sinusitis depend on the form of the disease. Outside of an exacerbation, symptoms may be very mild or absent. The most common symptoms of concern are:

• nasal congestion, difficulty in nasal breathing;
• scant mucous or purulent discharge from the nose, may be in the form of drying crusts;
• constant leakage from the nose, causing cracks and abrasions at the entrance to the nose;
• mucus running down the back of the throat;
• dry throat;
• headache;
• bad breath.

As the disease worsens, symptoms characteristic of acute sinusitis may appear.

Sinusitis in children

Sometimes sinusitis in children is more difficult to see than sinusitis in adults. The disease usually develops after an infection: influenza or sore throat, and is often accompanied by otitis media. The symptoms are somewhat blurred and appear weaker than in adults. Here are the main ones:

• purulent or mucous discharge from the nose;
• general weakness, malaise;
• pungent odor from the mouth.

With sinusitis in children, one side of the face is often inflamed. While sinusitis in adults is often accompanied by headaches, headaches in children are extremely rare.

Types of sinusitis

There are several types of sinusitis:

• sinusitis;
• frontal sinusitis;
• ethmoiditis;
• sphenoiditis, but the latter type of sinusitis is extremely rare and almost always together with ethmoiditis.

Examination of the nasal cavity in MedicCity

ENT unit Atmos S 31

Sinusitis

Sinusitis - one of the most common types of sinusitis. This disease is accompanied by inflammation in the maxillary and maxillary cavities. During inflammation, swelling of the mucous membrane occurs, which blocks the opening from the sinus to the nasal cavity. Mucus begins to accumulate in the sinus space, pathogenic bacteria multiply, and pus appears. Inside the cavity, pressure occurs on the vessels, and the person begins to feel pressing pain at the site of accumulation of pus.

Chronic sinusitis is the result of a long inflammatory process, when a person has had sinusitis for more than 2 months. The patient develops general weakness, nasal discharge has an unpleasant odor, the sense of smell is impaired, and a night cough appears. Chronic sinusitis is characterized by inflammation of only one sinus, right or left. Pressure in the sinus can cause a deviated nasal septum.

Symptoms of sinusitis

The following symptoms are characteristic of sinusitis:

• increased body temperature;
• copious discharge, nasal congestion;
• disturbances of smell;
• weakness;
• headache radiating to the forehead, bridge of the nose, teeth;
• pain that intensifies when tilting the head and pressing on the sinus;
• constant, intense pain;
• a feeling of fullness in the forehead and cheeks, aggravated by tilting the head, coughing and sneezing;
• photophobia and lacrimation.

Signs of sinusitis

If after a flu or cold the temperature rises again, your health worsens, severe pain appears when tilting your head and when pressing on the sinuses, then you need to urgently consult an otolaryngologist. These could be manifestations of sinusitis! Sinusitis in adults is often advanced, since adults are usually in no hurry to see a doctor.

Treatment of sinusitis

Antibiotics for sinusitis are used only after a complete examination of the patient, based on the characteristics of his body and possible allergic reactions.

Antibiotics are not advisable in case of sinusitis of allergic or fungal origin. For mild sinusitis, inhalations, rinses and immunotherapy are also sufficient.

Rhinoscopy in MedicCity

Videoendoscopy of the nasopharynx in MedicCity

ENT office in MedicCity

Frontit

Frontit (frontal sinusitis) is an inflammatory disease of the frontal paranasal sinus. This type of sinusitis is the most severe. There are forms of acute and chronic frontal sinusitis.

Symptoms of sinusitis

Acute frontal sinusitis, symptoms:

• pain and swelling around the nose and eyes;
• increased pain when tapping in the projection area of ​​the inflamed sinuses;
• heavy breathing due to inflammation of the nasal passages;
• runny nose with thick yellow or green mucus;
• increase in body temperature to 38-39 degrees;
• severe headache (minor relief occurs when lying down);
• pain radiating to the ears and teeth;
• fear of light;
• severe weakness;
• sometimes sore throat, difficulty identifying odors, decreased pungency of taste.

Chronic frontal sinusitis, symptoms:

• aching headache;
• purulent, unpleasant-smelling nasal discharge in the morning;
• slight increase in temperature;
• difficulty breathing through the nose;
• sputum discharge in the morning.

Causes of frontal sinusitis

The following reasons for the development of frontal sinusitis are distinguished:

• viral, bacterial or fungal infection;
• complication after influenza, ARVI, etc.;
• long-term infectious or allergic runny nose (rhinitis);

Treatment of frontal sinusitis

How to treat frontal sinusitis? Be sure to under the supervision of an otolaryngologist! The disease is not only difficult for many patients to tolerate, but also dangerously with serious complications, including orbital abscess, meningitis, sepsis, etc.

Treatment of sinusitis is aimed at eliminating infection in the sinuses and stopping inflammation. Medicines will help relieve swelling, improve ventilation of the sinuses and lead to the discharge of contents from them. If the disease is viral in nature, then antibiotics for frontal sinusitis are mandatory!

The following antibiotics are used to treat sinusitis:

• penicillin antibiotics (semi-synthetic or synthetic amoxicillin preparations);
• cephalosporin antibiotics;
• macrolide antibiotics (they do not affect the intestinal microflora);
• local antibiotics in the form of nasal drops, nasal spray, aerosol;
• homeopathic medicines;
• symptomatic remedies for frontal sinusitis in the form of vasoconstrictor nasal drops, antipyretics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

In case of severe frontal sinusitis and insufficient effectiveness of conservative treatment, sinus lavage using the method of displacement and puncture is prescribed.

Rhinoscopy in MedicCity

ENT consultation in MedicCity

ENT consultation in MedicCity

Prevention of frontal sinusitis

To prevent frontal sinusitis, you need to monitor the state of your immune system, promptly eliminate foci of inflammation in the ENT organs, harden your body, and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Ethmoiditis

Ethmoiditis - acute or chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the cells of the ethmoid labyrinth (anatomical labyrinth in the bridge of the nose). Ethmoiditis is bacterial or viral in nature.

There are acute and chronic ethmoiditis. Acute ethmoiditis accompanies influenza, rhinitis and is complemented by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses.

Ethmoiditis in adults affects both the frontal and maxillary cavities. With weak immunity, the acute form of ethmoiditis turns into long-term chronic ethmoiditis with periods of exacerbation and remission.

Polypous ethmoiditis is characterized by the appearance of polyps in the mucous membrane of the ethmoid labyrinth of the forehead. Polypous ethmoiditis may appear after chronic allergic rhinitis.

Catarrhal ethmoiditis occurs due to the activity of viruses. It is characterized by increased lacrimation, weakness, nausea, dizziness, swelling in the bridge of the nose, and fever.

Ethmoiditis in children is a very serious disease. The infection spreads very quickly due to the anatomical structure of the ethmoid labyrinth. The development of ethmoiditis in children requires urgent hospitalization.

Symptoms of ethmoiditis

Acute catarrhal ethmoiditis. Symptoms

• pain in the bridge of the nose and at the wings of the nose;
• heavy breathing through the nose;
• loss of smell;
• headache, weakness;
• profuse nasal discharge, which gradually becomes purulent;
• temperature rises to 38 degrees;
• In children, the inner corner of the eye socket also swells and turns red.

In acute form they differ primary And secondary ethmoiditis.

At primary ethmoiditis anxiety, vomiting, dyspepsia and toxicosis appear, temperature 39-40 degrees.

Secondary ethmoiditis is more severe and develops faster. The patient is in extremely serious condition with pronounced septic symptoms. The eyelids become swollen and cyanotic, swelling of the conjunctiva and noticeable protrusion of the eyeball are observed, and nasal breathing becomes difficult.

Chronic ethmoiditis. Symptoms

• headaches that are difficult to register by localization;
• weakness, rapid fatigue of the patient;
• soreness in the bridge of the nose when pressed and painful points at the wings of the nose;
• purulent discharge with a nauseating odor;
• extensive mucus in the nasopharynx, which is difficult to spit out;
• emerging polyps.

Complications after ethmoiditis:

• encephalitis,
• intraocular and intracranial pressure;
• destruction of the ethmoid bone.

Treatment of ethmoiditis

Treatment of ethmoiditis in acute form is predominantly conservative. It is necessary to ensure the outflow of mucus with the help of vasoconstrictors and physiotherapeutic procedures.

Treatment of ethmoiditis in chronic form is predominantly surgical.

MRI in MedicCity

Laboratory diagnostics in MedicCity

Ultrasound examination of the paranasal sinuses in MedicCity

Diagnosis of sinusitis using modern techniques

To confirm the diagnosis of sinusitis, the following types of examination are used:

• Video endoscopy of the nasal cavity and nasopharynx to identify features of the anatomical structure and determine predisposing factors for the development of sinusitis;
• radiography of the paranasal sinuses;
• Ultrasound examination of the paranasal sinuses is a safe method with no contraindications, used to diagnose sinusitis and monitor the treatment process;
• CT, MRI - according to indications;
• laboratory diagnostics according to indications in full.

Treatment of sinusitis at MedicCity

Conservative methods of treating sinusitis

If you are concerned about how to treat sinusitis in Moscow, be sure to contact the MedicCity specialists! Our clinic provides treatment for sinusitis without puncture and without pain. However, non-surgical treatment of sinusitis is possible only at the initial stage. Don't waste time!

In the vast majority of cases, treatment of sinusitis in our clinic is carried out without a puncture.

• Using YAMIK (sinus catheter). The YAMIK method is the use of a device called the “YAMIK sinus catheter.” Using the YAMIK sinus catheter, controlled pressure is created in the nasal cavity and the purulent contents of the sinus are pumped out through the natural anastomosis (openings), and then a medicinal substance (antibiotics, mucolytics) is administered.
• Rinsing the nose and paranasal sinuses using the moving method (“cuckoo”). It is carried out using a special suction - an aspirator; in the process, pathological contents are removed from the nasal cavity and sinuses and the drug is injected into the sinuses.
• Inhalation therapy using a special inhaler PARI SINUS. This method is based on the introduction of microparticles of the drug into the affected paranasal sinuses through a pulsating supply of an aerosol. In this case, the aerosol of the medicinal substance is deposited in the sinuses and has an effect directly at the site of inflammation.

All proposed methods for treating sinusitis are painless and effective.

When using combined treatment, complete recovery in case of acute sinusitis is achieved within 7-10 days.

If puncture treatment is necessary, it is possible to install special catheters in the sinus, which eliminate the need for repeated punctures.

Treatment of sinusitis surgically

Surgical treatment of pathology of the nose and paranasal sinuses in our clinic is based on the principles of functional endoscopic rhinosurgery (F.E.S.S.).

Functional endoscopic rhinosurgery is based on the use of the most gentle techniques for interventions on the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity. It is used for chronic diseases of the paranasal sinuses, such as hyperplastic, polypous, polypous-purulent sinusitis, cysts, etc. The use of modern endoscopic technology allows us to identify and completely eliminate most defects in the anatomical structure of the nose and paranasal sinuses, remove pathological tissues, which include cysts, polyps, thickened mucous membranes, abnormally enlarged bone structures, and pathological exudate. Surgical intervention on several sinuses using endoscopic technology is called endoscopic polysinsotomy.

It should be noted that all endoscopic interventions are performed through the natural nasal passages and do not require any external incisions.

Often, simultaneously with surgery on the paranasal sinuses, it is necessary to correct the nasal septum - septoplasty - and the turbinates in order to restore the normal anatomical structure of the nasal cavity and normalize nasal breathing.

It is important to know! A common cause of sinusitis is decreased immunity. If after treatment of frontal sinusitis, treatment of ethmoiditis or sinusitis, the immune system remains weak, then repeated relapses of the disease are possible. Therefore, we recommend that patients consult with an immunologist at our clinic - the doctor will select an individual program for you to support your immune system.

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses in the nasal cavity, the occurrence of which is caused by the penetration of viruses and bacteria into the body. In addition to infection, the cause may be the formation of fungus or irritation by allergens. It is known that this type of inflammation develops more often than other ENT diseases, and therefore has an established treatment regimen.

There are two types of inflammation: acute and chronic sinusitis. According to the duration of development of the disease, acute sinusitis lasts up to two months, and chronic sinusitis can develop for a long time, up to acute relapses more than three times a year. Statistics say that about 10% of the world's population suffers from sinusitis every year due to colds and hypothermia in the autumn-winter period. The incidence of the disease is 0.2% in adults. In children, the probability of pathology is 0.5%.

What it is?

Sinusitis is inflammation of the mucous membrane of one or more paranasal sinuses. It can occur as a complication of acute runny nose, flu, other infectious diseases, as well as after injuries to the facial area. Sinusitis can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. The main symptoms are heaviness in the paranasal or frontal area, pain with sudden head movements, thick nasal discharge, and fever.

Causes

Sinusitis often occurs as a result of complications of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the nasal cavity (flu, acute respiratory infections, rhinorrhea, etc.).

It is caused by pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, pneumococcal streptococcus, Haemophilus influenzae), and a viral infection. The fungus also provokes the disease, especially after improper use of antibacterial therapy. Trauma to parts of the face is also a cause of sinusitis.

In addition, the following factors lead to the development of the pathological condition:

1. Allergic reactions;
2. Polluted or cold air;
3. Weakened immune system;
4. Smoking;
5. Use of certain medications;
6. Deficiency of minerals and vitamins in the body;
7. Congenital or acquired deformation of the labyrinths and sinuses of the nose;
8. Hypothermia.

The risk group consists of people with diabetes, hypothyroidism, and diseases of the dental system.

Classification

Dividing sinusitis into types (classification) is necessary for making a correct diagnosis and adequate subsequent therapy. The classification of this pathology is based on several criteria:

• by the nature of the flow;
• by anatomical localization of inflammation;
• according to the form of the pathological process.

Depending on the nature of the course, there are 2 types of pathology:

• acute sinusitis – the disease lasts no longer than 1 month.
• chronic sinusitis - lasts a long time, sometimes the pathological process lasts for years, with periodic improvement (remission) and worsening (relapse) of the condition.

According to the form of the pathological process, there are 2 main types of sinusitis:

• proliferative – a variant of the course of sinusitis in which the number of cells in the sinus mucosa increases (polyps, hyperplastic process).
• exudative - inflammation is accompanied by the secretion of fluid (exudate or pus).

Depending on the anatomical localization of inflammation, according to the location of the sinus, there are:

• ethmoiditis - localization of inflammation in the sinuses of the ethmoid bone;
• frontal sinusitis - an infectious process develops in the frontal sinus;
• sinusitis – the maxillary sinus is affected;
• sphenoiditis is the predominant course of pathology in the sinus of the sphenoid bone.

The process can be one-way or two-way. When all the paranasal sinuses are inflamed on one side, hemisinusitis occurs; if all sinuses are affected, pansinusitis occurs.

Development mechanism

Inflammation of the sinus mucosa, caused by infection or other etiological factors, is accompanied by swelling. The glands begin to actively produce a large amount of mucus, which, accumulating in the sinuses due to the narrowing of the anastomosis of the paranasal cavities, thickens. The sinuses cease to be fully cleansed. As a result of stagnation of secretions, disruption of natural ventilation and oxygen deficiency in the tissues of the sinuses, favorable conditions are created for the life of opportunistic flora, which causes a chronic infectious process.

At the beginning of the disease, nasal discharge is serous in nature; as inflammation develops, it transforms into mucous-serous. Purulent exudate, which contains a large amount of detritus and leukocytes, is observed when an infection of a bacterial nature is attached. In this case, severe swelling is accompanied by a violation of the permeability of the capillary walls.

Acute sinusitis can last up to 2 months. and longer, ending with either recovery or transition to a chronic form, in which there is a persistent change in the membranes of the sinus mucosa. This makes the patient more prone to frequent sinus infections.

Common signs of sinusitis

Among the primary signs of sinusitis, which are usually sufficient to accurately identify this type of disease, are headache and significant nasal congestion.

Main signs of sinusitis:

• and sneezing;
• increased body temperature (fever);
• increased pressure in the face;
• mucous discharge from the nose;
• lack of smell;
• discomfort and congestion in the ears;
• painful reaction when turning the neck;
• lack of appetite;
• unnatural odors from the oral cavity;
• severe fatigue and loss of strength;
• acute pain in the teeth;
• feeling of excess foreign mass in the nose and above the eyes;
• nasal voice.

Other symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:

• slight but persistent nasal congestion;
• difficulty in nasal breathing;
• slight discharge, which can stand out for a long time, drying out in the form of crusts;
• leakage of mucus, leading to rubbing of the skin under the nose and the formation of cracks;
• dry throat;
• headache;
• displacement of the discharge to the back wall of the throat and flowing down it;
• bad breath.

Other symptoms, such as fever, are extremely rare and can only be caused by particularly acute and advanced forms of sinusitis, and are determined exclusively by specialists who can recommend hospitalization and outpatient tests.

Symptoms of sinusitis in adults

Depending on which sinus is inflamed, the symptoms of sinusitis will vary. Let's take a closer look.

Symptoms of ethmoiditis:

1. Headaches and pain of a neurological nature are not excluded.
2. Body temperature increases.
3. A person experiences pain in the area of ​​the bridge of the nose and the root of the nose.
4. In childhood, redness of the conjunctiva and swelling of the upper and lower eyelids are possible.
5. The olfactory function is impaired, nasal breathing is difficult.
6. If ethmoiditis is acute, the eyeball may be involved in the pathological process with its protrusion, as well as severe swelling of the eyelids.

With sinusitis of the frontal parts of the ethmoid labyrinth, the parallel development of sinusitis and frontal sinusitis is likely. With inflammation of the posterior sections of the ethmoidal labyrinth, sphenoiditis may develop.

Symptoms of sinusitis:

1. Acute onset with an increase in body temperature to 38 degrees and above.
2. Symptoms of body intoxication.
3. Chills.
4. Watering may occur.
5. The discharge from the nasal passages is initially serous and liquid, and as the disease progresses it becomes green and cloudy.
6. Pain in the area of ​​the maxillary sinus, in the frontal area, near the root of the nose and along the zygomatic bone.
7. Increasing pain when pressing, its return to the temples.
8. Headaches of varying severity.
9. Deterioration of nasal breathing on the side that was involved in the pathological process. Breathing is done through the mouth.

If the disease becomes chronic, then during the period of remission it reminds itself of itself with rare headaches, which are expressed in a feeling of pressure behind the eyes. Possible addition of cough at night, conjunctivitis, keratitis. Nasal discharge is insignificant, its volume increases during an exacerbation of the disease.

Symptoms of sphenoiditis:

1. The pain is localized in the orbital area, in the parietal area and in the occipital region.
2. Often the symptoms of sphenoiditis are blurred and the disease proceeds hidden.
3. The ethmoid sinus is often involved in the inflammatory process, so isolated sphenoiditis is diagnosed extremely rarely.
4. The patient may complain of pain in the depths of the head.
5. The chronic course of the disease can provoke visual impairment, since the optic nerves are involved in the pathological process.

Symptoms of frontal sinusitis:

1. Nasal breathing is extremely difficult.
2. Body temperature increased to high levels.
3. It is possible to develop photophobia with pain in the eye sockets.
4. After the inflamed sinus is emptied, the intensity of the pain decreases.
5. From the side of the inflamed nasal sinus, serous contents are separated.
6. The pain is very intense and is localized to the forehead. The pain intensifies in the morning.
7. If frontal sinusitis develops against the background of influenza, then the patient may experience changes in the skin of the forehead with swelling of the areas above the eyebrows and swelling of the upper eyelid.

Frontal sinusitis is more difficult for patients to tolerate than other sinusitis. When the process becomes chronic, the growth of polyps in the nasal cavity, necrosis of bone tissue, and the formation of fistulas are possible.

Diagnostics

Sinusitis can be diagnosed using patient complaints, clinical picture, rhinoscopy and additional studies. Patients can almost always clearly indicate the location of the pain, which indicates the location of the inflammation. If purulent discharge and low-grade fever are confirmed, an additional computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can be performed to assess the scale of the inflammatory process.

Complications

Sinusitis is a very insidious disease that threatens the patient with complications. Note that not only the sinuses, but also the surrounding bones of the skull are involved in the pathological process. The spread of bone inflammation threatens with osteomyelitis. The most common complication of sinusitis is. Most often, meningitis is a consequence of inflammation of the sphenoid sinus and ethmoid labyrinth. Frontitis can cause an epidural abscess or even a brain abscess.

If sinusitis is not treated and the disease is allowed to progress to the chronic stage, further changes can lead to death.

Treatment of sinusitis in adults

In adults, treatment for sinusitis should always be comprehensive and aimed at the main symptoms of this disease. During treatment, several methods are used - medication, physiotherapy, this set can be supplemented by using some traditional medicine methods at home. If the therapy is ineffective, surgical treatment may be used.

Drug treatment

Treatment with medications is prescribed after eliminating the factors that provoked the onset of the disease. Only the attending physician can prescribe medications, taking into account the form of the disease and the condition of the patient.

List of medications that can be prescribed by a doctor for sinusitis:

1. First you need to purchase nasal vasoconstrictor drops. Such drugs are allowed to be used only in cases of acute sinusitis. Doctors usually prescribe Protargol, Ingaron, Derinat, Grippferon, Pinosol, Euphorbium.
2. Before using the drops, you need to rinse your nose, which will ensure the proper results from the drops and also help normalize breathing. It is best to use proven drugs “Dioxidin”, “Miramistan”, “Furacilin”, “Chlorophyllipt”.
3. In case of high temperature, take antipyretics - Paracetamol, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Nalgesin.
4. The patient is prescribed antihistamines “Loratadine”, “Cetirizine”, “Zyrtec”, “Cetrin” and others.
5. In addition, the patient needs mucolytic agents for the rapid drainage of sputum and mucus - Libexin, Mucodin, Fluditec.
6. You cannot do without anti-inflammatory drugs - Amoxilav, Unazin, Ampisid.
7. In combination with the above treatment, the patient needs antibacterial drugs in the form of drops - “Isofra”, “Sofradex”, “Polydex” and others, as well as drugs in the form of tablets “Ciprofloxacin”, “Levofloxacin”, “Ofloxacin”.

Taking these medications is prohibited without prior consultation with your doctor. Before using the drugs, read the instructions for use and make sure there are no contraindications or hypersensitivity to the active substances of the drug.

Antibiotics for sinusitis

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial and viral, but not infectious, sinusitis. Unfortunately, due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, many types of bacteria do not respond to antibiotic treatment, becoming “resistant” to these drugs. Due to the problem of bacterial resistance, doctors have to switch to other antibiotics or prescribe stronger antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.

Amoxicillin, a type of penicillin, is the main antibiotic used to treat sinusitis, but it is becoming less effective. Augmentin has replaced amoxicillin as the antibiotic recommended for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis in children and adults. This type of penicillin works against a wide range of bacteria.

Treatment with folk remedies

Folk wisdom and ancient medicine have preserved dozens of recipes that help cope with sinusitis. Below, the most effective of them will be indicated.

1. Tea mushroom. For sinusitis, traditional medicine recommends using kombucha tincture as a nasal rinse.
2. Steam inhalations with the addition of essential oils or extracts of pine, eucalyptus, tea tree, mint (a few drops are enough) - these products clean and disinfect the cavities in the sinuses, and also relieve swelling of the mucous membranes.
3. Classical herbal medicine. Take two tablespoons of string, 1 tbsp. a spoonful of hop cones, and three teaspoons of oregano. Boil the decoction for 10 minutes, add one teaspoon of dried wormwood, stir, strain, cool and drink 100 mg twice a day on an empty stomach. Funds for two weeks.
4. Lotions made from a mixture of propolis and golden mustache juice. To prepare them, take several balls of propolis, soak them in a mixture of water and golden mustache juice (50 to 50), heat them a little over low heat, place them in 2-3 thick pieces of gauze folded in several layers and apply the product to the area of ​​the affected sinuses. Keep the lotions for 30-40 minutes, perform the above steps no more than once a day, for about 10-12 days.

It is also necessary to strictly adhere to the regime. Smoking is completely prohibited during the treatment period. Meals should be regular and the diet should be balanced. It is recommended to abstain from coffee to avoid dehydration (dehydration) of the body. It should also be remembered that alcoholic beverages and antibiotics are incompatible.

Physiotherapy and massage

For sinusitis, it is recommended to use not only drug therapy, but local methods of influence - physiotherapy and massage. Physiotherapy is aimed at various manifestations of the disease; conditionally, all procedures can be divided into several groups:

• immunocorrective procedures (SUV - irradiation);
• anti-inflammatory procedures (UHF, ultrasound);
• bactericidal procedures (electrophoresis, darsonvalization);
• sedative procedures (electrophoresis, galvanization).

The necessary funds must be selected by the attending physician. In addition, you can do massage, which is especially effective for sinusitis. It is available to everyone, the procedure can be done at home.

Nasal rinsing

Sinus rinsing can be helpful in clearing nasal mucus and relieving sinusitis symptoms. Rinsing the nose also cleanses the nasal passages of dirt, dust, secretions, germs, allergens that accumulate there, and can also be used as a preventive measure.

A rinse solution can be easily prepared at home, for example, by mixing 1 teaspoon of table or sea salt with 2 cups of warm water. Some people add a pinch of baking soda. You can also use a weak solution of potassium permanganate, chlorhexidine or furatsilin.

Rinse your nose several times a day.

Surgery

Treatment of acute sinusitis in severe form involves performing a nasal puncture, thanks to which it is possible to quickly remove purulent contents from the sinuses. The essence of this procedure is as follows:

The doctor makes a hole with a special surgical needle in the soft cartilaginous tissues of the nose, if we are talking about sinusitis - this operation is called puncture. In case of frontal sinusitis, a puncture is made under the eyebrow - this procedure is called trephine puncture. Through the resulting hole, the purulent contents are removed, the sinus is washed with an antiseptic solution and, if necessary, a small catheter is left in order to repeat the washing 3-4 more times.

Surgical treatment of sinusitis is the fastest way to get rid of the disease. But after the operation, antibacterial agents must be prescribed to consolidate the result.

Prevention

Prevention of sinusitis and other sinusitis is the same as for other diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Avoid hypothermia, carry out general strengthening procedures (sports, hardening). It is necessary to fight the disease that has already begun, to put the immune system in order. If you have a runny nose, you need to fight it and take medications that reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa. The most reliable prevention, obviously, is medical supervision.