Sinusitis is also known as nasal congestion. Often times, it comes on after an upper respiratory tract infection, although it can also because of a bacterial or allergic cause. Anyone with a fever higher than 102 degrees F, dark-yellow or brown discharge for more than seven days or a stiff neck and signs of disorientation should seek the help of a doctor immediately.
Major Signs and Symptoms
Pain and pressure along the forehead and between the eyes are the main symptoms of sinusitis. Along with the pain is an associated frontal headache. The nose and sinuses will be congested and there will be mucous and discharge. This discharge either runs down the nose or the back of the throat. When it runs down the back of the throat, it will cause a cough that may or may not be productive. Those with sinusitis may have difficulty distinguishing scents or even smelling scents at all. Not all of these symptoms need to be present to indicate sinusitis.
Minor Signs and Symptoms
These symptoms are not always present with sinusitis, and having them without the major symptoms does not necessarily indicate a sinus infection. Foul breath is the result of to the body fighting the drainage of mucus and the body's reaction to it. There can also be a sore throat and earaches. Those with sinusitis, especially with an upper respiratory tract infection, may wheeze from the lungs or wheeze when breathing from the throat because of mucus drainage. Inflamed sinuses alter the voice, which may sound nasal or stuffy. The sinus cavities are large, so the pain can be felt on the upper front teeth, which are next to the maxillary sinus. Occasional swelling around the eyes is also possible.
Pediatric
Children are more likely to cough and have a fever than adults. Signs of irritability will be more noticeable in children, who do not respond as well as adults to being sick. The sinus cavities are also large in children and signs of swelling around the eyes, if present, will be more obvious.
Bacterial Causes
Signs of sinusitis due to bacterial causes include mucus or discharge that is yellow, green or brown, along with the above major and minor criteria. This type of sinusitis is most common after flying or diving because of the rapid changes in pressure and recycled air. Swimming, nasal packing, nasal intubation and upper molar dental work all can introduce bacteria into the nose and sinus area as well.
Allergic Sinusitis
Signs of allergic sinusitis include thin, watery mucus that is usually clear in color and lasts for more than seven days. Intermittent sneezing, itchy nose and eyes will usually accompany the other signs. Note the absence of fever or chills, aches and pains, productive cough or sore throat. History of allergic responses is also a helpful clue. According to the August 2, 2009, issue of "Pediatric Allergic Immunology Journal," most of the allergic sinusitis population is made up of children and adolescents, so if your little one is having any of these symptoms without previous infection, allergies are possible.
References
- Sinusitis and Sinus Pain, "Conservative Care Pathways," Steven Oliver DC et al, 2000.
- Allergic Rhinitis in the Child and Associated Comorbidities, "Pediatric Allergy Immunology," Sih T, Mion O.; August 2, 2009.
