Sinusitis | 832.000000000000 | Sinusitis | Sinusitis | S | English | Otolaryngology | Pre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | Head | Respiratory system | Conditions and diseases | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | Cough;Fever;Headache;Nasal congestion;Runny nose;Sore throat | | 2010-02-15T05:00:00Z | | Mark Feldman MD, FRCPC | | | | 8.00000000000000 | 54.6000000000000 | 499.000000000000 | | Health (A-Z) - Conditions | Health A-Z | <p>An overview of this condition marked by an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, along with tips on how to help your child recover.</p> | <h2>What is sinusitis?</h2><p>The sinuses are the cavities in bones around the nose, eyes and in the forehead. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses. The inflammation occurs because of a bacterial infection. Inflammation causes swelling. Sinusitis is more common in children over 10 years old.</p>
<figure class="asset-c-100">
<span class="asset-image-title">Sinuses</span>
<img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/Sinuses_MED_ILL_EN.jpg" alt="Location of the frontal sinus, maxillary sinus, sphenoid sinus (deep) and ethmoid sinuses" />
<figcaption class="asset-image-caption">The</figcaption>
<figcaption class="asset-image-caption"> sinuses are hollow cavities within the facial bones. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses.</figcaption>
</figure> | | <h2>Key points</h2>
<ul>
<li>Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses. </li>
<li>Sinusitis is more common in children over age 10.</li>
<li>Symptoms include cold symptoms lasting longer than 10 days. There may be a headache that worsens when bending forward.</li>
<li>Antibiotics should help clear the infection within 48 to 72 hours.</li>
<li>Do not give your child acetylsalicylic acid (ASA).</li>
</ul> | | <h2>Signs and symptoms of sinusitis</h2>
<p>Symptoms include:</p>
<ul>
<li>cold symptoms lasting longer than 10 days</li>
<li>headache that worsens when bending forward</li>
<li>high fevers</li>
<li>thick yellow-green mucous coming out of the nose for at least three days</li>
<li>swelling around the eye and over the sinuses</li>
<li>facial pain</li>
</ul> | <h2>Causes</h2>
<p>Sinusitis is caused by a blockage in the passages of the nose and throat. When a child is healthy, mucus produced in the sinuses traps harmful bacteria. It sends the bacteria down the lining of the sinuses to drain. When there are blockages, the bacteria gather. The bacteria can multiply. This may happen if a child has a viral infection like a cold. This leads to a sinus infection. This causes swelling of the sinus tissues. </p> | | <h2>What your child's doctor can do for your child with sinusitis</h2>
<h3>Physical examination</h3>
<p>Your child's doctor will examine your child. Usually reviewing signs and symptoms is enough to make a diagnosis. CT scans may be considered. </p> | <h2>Treatment</h2>
<p>Once diagnosed, your child’s doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. The infection should start to clear within 48 to 72 hours.</p> | | <h2>How you can help your child </h2>
<h3>Monitor the fever and complete the antibiotics</h3>
<p>The fever usually improves 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotics. Complete the course of antibiotic therapy as prescribed. This is important to prevent a recurrence, antibiotic resistance, and complications of the disease. <a href="/Article?contentid=62&language=English">Acetaminophen</a> or <a href="/Article?contentid=153&language=English">ibuprofen</a> can be used to treat fever or pain. DO NOT give your child <a href="/Article?contentid=77&language=English">acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)</a>.</p>
<h3>Offer your child liquids, often</h3>
<p>Give plenty of liquids. Sipping with a straw or sippy cup may help.</p>
<h3>Steam to clear sinuses </h3>
<p>Place a cool mist humidifier in your child's room. This can help keep air moist. It may relieve the nasal and sinus congestion. If a humidifier is to be used, avoid hot water humidifiers (these can lead to burns when curious toddlers tug on them to see what is inside). </p> | | <h2>When to get medical assistance</h2>
<p>See a doctor, call 9-1-1, or visit the nearest Emergency Department right away if:</p>
<ul>
<li>your child has a high fever and a bad headache.</li>
</ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/Sinuses_MED_ILL_EN.jpg | Sinusitis | | False | | | | | |