Sinusitis is a condition where the nasal passages (sinuses) become inflamed and swollen. The Mayo Clinic explains that this interferes with normal mucus drainage. Sinusitis is a common problem in children, says Dr. Alan Greene, pediatrician. A diagnosis of sinusitis is often referring to bacterial infection of the sinuses, even though every cold is actually a case of viral sinusitis. Symptoms of this problem in toddlers are sometimes hard to distinguish between a normal cold or other respiratory ailments.
Drainage
Drainage of mucus can occur for numerous reasons including sinusitis, the common cold and allergies. A sinus infection can occur as a result of allergies or a persistent cold. Mucus drainage from the nose that is thick, yellow or green is often due to a sinus infection, suggests BabyCenter.com. Drainage down the back of the throat can cause a cough that gets worse at night. Dr. Greene points out that coughing and mucus secretions that last 10 days or more are the result of more than the common cold.
Pain
Sinus pressure from congestion can lead to pain, tenderness and swelling. The location of the discomfort can include the eye area, cheeks, nose and the forehead. The Mayo Clinic says the upper jaw, teeth and ears may ache. Dr. Greene says headaches and facial tenderness make diagnosing sinusitis easier in adults and adolescents but these symptoms are not as common in younger children. Throat soreness is common with a sinus infection. About half of all toddlers have an ear infection along with the sinus infection.
Difficulty Breathing
Breathing through the congestion can be difficult. A toddler may breathe loudly or have labored breathing. Sometimes the nostrils may flare with each breath as she tries to inhale through her nose. Breathing through the mouth may be a toddler's only way to cope with the sinus blockage.
Other Symptoms
As a result of the many symptoms, sinusitis can cause a toddler to be more irritable, tired or have trouble sleeping, become uninterested in playing or have a diminished appetite. A toddler may have bad breath or a fever from the infection. Other signs of sinusitis include irritability and even nausea, says the Mayo Clinic. Toddlers may have dark rings under and around the eyes from the sinus infection. In addition to darkness, the facial tissues may appear swollen or puffy.
