What Are the Sinuses?
The sinuses are air-filled cavities within the skull that open into the nasal cavity. Medically known as the paranasal sinuses, these structures are located in the forehead, cheeks, around the eyes, and at the base of the nose. They help maintain the respiratory system's moisture balance through mucus production.
What Is Sinusitis?
Inflammation of the sinuses is called sinusitis. It's the most common sinus condition.
Types of Sinusitis
Sinusitis is classified by duration as acute (less than 4 weeks) or chronic (more than 12 weeks). Acute sinusitis usually develops after an upper respiratory infection and mostly resolves on its own or with short-term treatment. Chronic sinusitis requires a longer-term treatment approach.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Nasal congestion
- Facial fullness and pain
- Headache
- Postnasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell
- Fever, in some cases
How Is Sinusitis Treated?
Medical Treatment
This is the first line of treatment:
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Antibiotics (if a bacterial infection is present)
- Pain relievers
- Saline nasal rinses
Chronic Sinusitis
Sinusitis is considered chronic when symptoms last longer than 12 weeks. In this case, long-term nasal sprays, allergy treatment, and regular nasal rinsing are recommended.
What Is Sinus Surgery?
In cases of chronic sinusitis that don't improve despite medication, endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is performed.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
- An endoscope is inserted through the nose.
- The sinus openings are widened.
- Blocked and inflamed tissue is cleared.
- No external incision is made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sinus surgery require an external incision?
No. In endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), an endoscope is inserted through the nose; the sinus openings are widened and the blocked, inflamed tissue is cleared. No external incision is made.
When does chronic sinusitis require surgery?
Sinusitis is considered chronic when symptoms last longer than 12 weeks. If improvement is not achieved despite long-term medication, allergy treatment, and regular nasal rinsing, endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is considered.
What happens if sinusitis is left untreated?
Untreated chronic sinusitis can lead to recurrent infections, loss of smell, and in rare cases, complications that spread to surrounding tissue.