What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis, commonly referred to as sinus infection, is a condition marked by the inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, i.e., the air cavities present inside the nose. These can get blocked sometimes due to excessive mucus build-up, thereby drastically affecting the natural drainage of mucus. Depending upon the symptoms and how long they last, sinusitis can be classified as acute or chronic. In some cases, the problem goes away on its own, without any need for medical intervention, however, if the symptoms are severe and not going away on their own, you might need to get the problem treated surgically.
Nasal polyps
Deviated nasal septum
Infections of the respiratory tract
Allergies
Nasal or drainage duct blockage
Passive smoking
Fever
Fatigue
Postnasal drainage
Nasal congestion
Facial and dental pain
Bad breath
Thick and discoloured nasal discharge
Loss of taste and smell
Your doctor will first conduct a physical examination and look inside your nose. This is followed by imaging tests like CT scan and MRI so as to assess the area for any signs of inflammation or obstruction. Nasal endoscopy will be done to evaluate the sinus in detail from within. This is done by inserting an endoscope into your nasal cavity. The device has a tiny lens at one of its ends, which helps to generate detailed and enlarged images of the nasal cavity.
You may be also recommended to go for an allergy test to determine whether your sinus is being triggered by an allergy. If the doctor thinks that the infection has been triggered by a bacterial or fungal infection, a swab test will be performed.
The treatment plan is curated in accordance with the individual needs of the patient. Doctors may initially recommend nasal corticosteroids, antibiotics and immunotherapy for the management of the symptoms, however, if these fail to work, surgery will be required. The procedure is carried out with the help of an endoscope. The doctor will use special instruments, depending upon the source of obstruction. Your doctor will either remove the unwanted tissue or shave away the polyp that is responsible for the blockage. In some cases, the sinus opening might also be enlarged.