Answer:

Sinuses are air-filled cavities within the facial bones. Sinusitis occurs when the lining of these cavities becomes inflamed and swollen, producing excess mucus due to viruses, bacteria, fungi, allergies, or blocked sinus openings.

Chronic sinusitis lasts for more than 12 weeks, with at least 4 episodes occurring within a year. Symptoms include discolored nasal discharge, nasal congestion, pain in the nose and facial area, reduced sense of smell, and headaches. The condition arises from infection, inflammation, or structural abnormalities within the sinuses. Other contributing factors include allergic rhinitis (dust, mold), exposure to irritants (airborne irritants, smoke, or other toxins), structural abnormalities (nasal polyps, deviated septum), fungal infections, and weakened immunity.

In the early stages, before complications or structural damage occur, medical treatment is prescribed. Doctors often recommend daily saline nasal rinses to cleanse the nasal passages, remove mucus, and clear allergens from the sinuses. While daily saline nasal rinses alone won't cure sinusitis, they're an effective supportive measure that can alleviate symptoms, reduce recurrence of infections, and prevent serious complications.

Use sterile 0.9% saline solution (NaCl) purchased from pharmacies. Avoid preparing it yourself, as improper hygiene and incorrect mixing ratios can harm the nasal and throat lining. You can rinse your nose and gargle 1-2 times a day, or up to 5-6 times a day for severe infections.

Doctor Hang performs a nasal endoscopy on a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Hang performs a nasal endoscopy on a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Additional measures like steam inhalation, warm compresses on the face, and increasing air humidity (using humidifiers, keeping plants, placing water bowls) can help thin mucus, improve blood circulation in the face and sinuses, and reduce facial heaviness and pain. If medical treatment and supportive methods prove ineffective, surgery might be necessary. This can remove damaged sinus tissue, correct structural issues like a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates, and manage complications.

Untreated sinusitis can lead to serious complications, spreading to the eyes and causing swelling, pressure, or orbital abscesses, affecting vision. It can also spread to the brain, causing meningitis or brain abscesses. If sinusitis recurs with fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, foul-smelling nasal discharge, or if symptoms don't improve after 3-5 days of treatment, consult an ENT specialist immediately for diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent complications. To minimize recurrence, avoid exposure to allergens like dust, pollen, and animal dander, wear a mask and keep warm when outdoors, and maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate rest and nutrition.

Associate Professor, Doctor Tran Thi Thuy Hang

Head of Otolaryngology

Otolaryngology Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM