Acute sinusitis (rhino sinusitis)

Question 1

What is sinusitis?

Answer 1

inflammation of the paranasal sinuses

Question 2

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Answer 2

nasal blockage
nasal discharge
dental or facial pain
reduction or loss of smell

Question 3

Is sinusitis self limiting?

Answer 3

Yes It usually improves in 2-3 weeks

Question 4

What are the complications of sinusitis?

Answer 4

Rarely periorbital cellulitis or meningitis

Question 5

What is the treatment for sinusitis if symptoms for <10 days?

Answer 5

paracetamol or ibuprofen

Question 6

What is the treatment for sinusitis if symptoms for >10 days with no improvement?

Answer 6

1) high dose intranasal corticosteroid e.g. mometasone for 14 days
2) back up antibiotic prescription if symptoms do not improve in 7 days or worsen

Question 7

When do we give antibiotics?

Answer 7

If systemically very unwell

Question 8

What is the first line antibiotic for sinusitis?

Answer 8

phenoxymethylpenicillin 500mg QDS for 5 days