|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CAN CHILDREN GET SINUS INFECTION? WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF
SINUSITIS? SHOULD MY CHILD HAVE SINUS X-RAYS? MEDICAL TREATMENT OF SINUSITIS The
term "sinus" refers to an air-filled cavity in the facial bones.
There are four different sinus areas: the maxillary sinuses (behind the
cheeks), the frontal sinuses (above the eyes), the ethmoid sinuses
(between the eyes), and the sphenoid sinuses (behind the eyes). Sinusitis
is an infection of the lining of the sinus. It is due to a blockage of the
natural drainage passages; this blockage may be the result of chronic
allergic irritation of the nasal tissue, viral infection ("common
cold") and nasal injury or repeated sinus infection. If the thin
mucus that the sinus normally produces cannot drain out of the sinus, it
will allow bacteria to grow; this is an infected sinus. This infected
sinus is what produces the symptoms of sinusitis. Swelling
of the lining of the sinus drainage passage is the most common cause of
blockage. Once the drainage passage is blocked, infection in the sinus may
cause the passage to stay swollen shut.
Therefore, the infected mucus cannot leave the sinus. This is known
as chronic sinusitis if it lasts for more than 10-12 weeks. The initial
lining swelling is usually due to either a viral infection (a cold) or
allergic rhinitis. CAN CHILDREN GET SINUS INFECTIONS? Sinusitis is now recognized and diagnosed with increasing frequency in the pediatric population. It is usually associated with upper respiratory illnesses suck as colds and flu. The incidence rises significantly in the fall and winter. Aleergy also plays a role, particularly in chronic sinusitis. Children with weak immune systems and asthmatics are likely sinusitis victims. The chance for resistant bacteria as a cause of sinusitis increases as the wide spread use of stronger antibiotics increases. Back to Top WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF
SINUSITIS?
1) Thick nasal drainage, usually white or green
2) Nasal congestion
3) Sensation of post-nasal drip
4) Chronic cough
5) Chronic sore throat
6) Facial pain and/or pressure If
you would like to schedule an appointment with an ENT Physician in your
area, please click here for location information.
SHOULD
MY CHILD HAVE SINUS X-RAYS? The
diagnosis of both acute and chronic sinusitis is made primarily on clinical information gathered from the history and physical
exam. X-rays of the sinuses may be helpful, however, sinus x-rays in
children under the age of 3 can be inaccurate in up to 2/3 of the
cases. In children older than 3, the x-rays are wrong 1/3 of the
time. The most accurate way to evaluate the sinuses with x-ray involves
the CAT scan. A CAT scan can give an accurate and detailed picture of
which sinus cavities are involved with infection. Plain x-rays and CAT
scans provide little radiation exposure to the child; however, all x-rays
in children should be kept to a minimum and used judiciously. 1) Antibiotics - these are to
kill the bacteria in the sinus; may require a total of 4 to 6 weeks for
complete resolution
of infection. 2) Decongestants - these
decrease congestion and swelling of the sinus lining. 3) Nasal steroid spray - works
directly in the nose to decrease the congestion and swelling. 4) Guaifenesin - thins the
secretion to help relieve congestion. WARNING! Antihistimines (Benadryl, Chlortrimeton, Tavist) are not helpful in sinusitis as they thicken secretions and aggravate the congestion problem.
The information provided on
this web site is not intended to take the place of consultation with your
physician. You should always consult a physician whenever you require
diagnosis or treatment. |
|
Copyright © 2008 Atlanta Children's ENT. | |
