What kind of disease is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the facial cavities called sinuses.
It is also called cysticercosis.
The sinuses are four cavities around the nose, one on each side. There are four types of sinuses: the frontal sinus behind the forehead, the ethmoid sinus behind the eyes, the sphenoid sinus behind the nose, and the maxillary sinus behind the cheeks.
All of these are connected to the inside of the nose (nasal cavity) by narrow passages.
Sinusitis occurs when the mucous membranes of the sinuses become inflamed by bacteria, viruses, or allergies.
Sinusitis that lasts less than four weeks from onset is called acute sinusitis, while sinusitis that lasts more than three months is called chronic sinusitis.
Acute sinusitis often develops when an infection of the mucous membranes of the nose caused by a cold or other illness affects the sinuses.
Chronic sinusitis may be caused by a prolonged infection that develops in the same way, problems with the shape of the nose or sinuses, dental infections, allergies, or other factors.
There is also a type of chronic sinusitis called eosinophilic sinusitis, in which cells called eosinophils are involved in the inflammation, and is designated as an incurable disease by the government.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
The main symptoms of sinusitis are nasal congestion, runny nose, and facial pain and pressure.
It may also be accompanied by an abnormal sense of smell, such as no odor or a strange odor, or by a runny nose that drips down the throat and causes coughing.
Acute sinusitis may cause fever. Both acute and chronic cases may also be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fatigue and malaise.
What tests are performed if you suspect sinusitis?
If sinusitis is suspected based on symptoms and course of disease, nasal examination, imaging tests, blood tests, and olfactory tests are performed as needed.
Rhinoscopes and endoscopes are used to examine the inside of the nose, while imaging tests include x-rays and CT of the sinuses.
CT scans are superior in accurately assessing the degree and extent of inflammation.
What is the treatment for sinusitis?
Sinusitis is often caused by pathogen infection and is first treated with medication.
If a bacterial infection is suspected, antimicrobial agents are used. In cases of acute sinusitis, antimicrobial treatment for about a week often improves the condition.
In addition, antihistamines, leukotriene antagonists, and other types of oral medications and nasal steroids may be used to reduce inflammatory symptoms.
In addition to being used to reduce inflammation, they also act to reduce allergies and are useful when allergies are the cause.
Expectorants may be used to promote nasal drainage.
In cases of chronic sinusitis that do not improve with such treatment, an antibacterial drug called macrolide may be taken orally for a long period of time.
This treatment is intended to restore the function of the sinus surfaces rather than to kill bacteria.
Eosinophilic sinusitis may be treated with oral steroids.
If these medications do not improve or if chronic sinusitis persists, surgery may be considered.
For example, surgery may be performed to widen the nasal passages or to remove pus from the sinuses.
With proper treatment, sinusitis symptoms can often be alleviated and a comfortable life can be restored.
If symptoms persist or do not improve, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The following tests and treatments for sinusitis can be performed at Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic.
The clinic specializes in orthopedics, internal medicine, and sports medicine and can provide a variety of tests and treatments.
The following are the tests and treatments for sinusitis that can be performed at our clinic
Examination: X-ray, blood test
Treatment: Prescription of medications to control symptoms
At our clinic, we provide careful care and a peaceful environment,
We are committed to alleviating your concerns and supporting the improvement of your health.
Please feel free to take a walk and consult with us at our clinic.