Acute sinusitis Flashcards
1
Q
Define acute sinusitis.
A
Inflammation of the sinuses for <4 weeks
2
Q
What are the most common causes of acute sinusitis?
A
Viral (most common)
- rhinovirus
- coronavirus
- adenovirus
Bacterial:
- S. pneumoniae
- H. influenzae
- M. catarrhalis
3
Q
What are the clinical features of acute rhinosinusitis?
A
Rhinitis:
- sneezing
- nasal congestion
- rhinorrhoea
- postnasal drip
Sinusitis:
- fever, headaches
- facial pain/pressure
- erythema
- swelling over the affected area due to inflammation
4
Q
What are predisposing factors for acute sinusitis?
A
- Nasal obstruction (septal deviation or nasal polyps)
- Recent local infection
- Swimming/diving
- Smoking
5
Q
What is the management of acute sinusitis?
A
- Analgesia
- Intranasal decongestants or nasal saline
6
Q
When should intranasal corticosteroids be considered in acute sinusitis?
A
If symptoms have been present for >10 days
7
Q
When should abx be considered in acute sinusitis?
A
- If patient is systemically unwell, S+S of a more serious illness, or at high risk of complications
- 1st line abx: phenoxymethylpenicillin
