What is Acute sinusitis?

an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the paranasal sinuses

What are the main clinical features of Acute sinusitis?

• facial pain
• typically frontal pressure pain which is worse on bending forward
• nasal discharge: usually thick and purulent
• nasal obstruction

What is the management of Acute sinusitis?

• analgesia
• intranasal decongestants or nasal saline may be considered but the evidence supporting these is limited
• intranasal corticosteroids may be considered if the symptoms have been present for more than 10 days
• oral antibiotics are not normally required

What are the main causes of Acute sinusitis?

Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and rhinoviruses

What are the Predisposing risk factors of Acute sinusitis?

• nasal obstruction e.g. septal deviation or nasal polyps
• recent local infection e.g. rhinitis or dental extraction
• swimming/diving
• smoking