Causes Of Sinusitis

Rhinosinusitis, commonly referred to as just sinusitis, is an inflammation in the facial bone cavities, called the sinuses. The most common sinuses involved are the frontal, ethmoid, and maxillary sinuses. These hollow regions in the facial bones have a thin tissue lining that may become inflamed and swollen and secrete excessive mucous and fluid, which can lead to pain and difficulty breathing through the nose. If the condition lasts for more than twelve weeks, it is chronic sinusitis. Acute and chronic sinusitis have similar symptoms including a headache, pain, swelling, nasal congestion, and post-nasal discharge. Acute sinusitis is usually associated with a cold virus but may persist after the virus resolves. Chronic sinusitis can last years and may be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. Learn more about this now.

Deviated Septum

This condition, in which the cartilaginous and bony tissue that separates the nasal airway passages, develops off center or becomes crooked due to an accident, can lead to difficulty breathing through the nose and increase the risk of sinus infections. When a deviated septum is the cause of sinusitis, surgical intervention is required through a procedure called septoplasty. This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis with same-day discharge. In a septoplasty, the surgeon trims the nasal cartilage and repositions it to allow better airflow in the passageways. Sometimes incisions into the nasal bones will be required depending on the type of damage or malformation involved. The procedure usually takes from thirty to ninety minutes and has a relatively high success rate. The cartilaginous tissue of the septum can shift during recovery and may need revision in some patients. Possible complications include bleeding, infection continued obstruction in breathing, septal hematoma (blood in the nasal space), and septal perforation.

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