Acute and Chronic Sinusitis Flashcards
1
Q
what is it?
A
an infection of the paranasal sinuses - bacterial but occasionally fungal
most commonly associated with a URT infection - can occur with asthma
2
Q
how does it present?
A
frontal headache
purulent rhinorrhoea
facial pain and tenderness
fever
3
Q
how is it managed?
A
nasal decongestants e.g. xylometazoline
broad spectrum antibiotics - co-amoxiclav
anti-inflammatory therapy - topical corticosteroids - fluticasone propionate (nasal spray) to reduce mucosal swelling
steam inhalations
if recurrent there is a risk of orbital cellulitis - need ENT opinion and CT
functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is used or ventilation and drainage of the sinuses
