Symptoms of rhinosinusitis

Facial pain, nasal congestion or runny nose, headache, and poor sleep are common symptoms of sinusitis.

Sinuses are hollow cavities located inside the skull and facial bones, filled with air and kept clean. When these cavities become inflamed, the mucous membrane lining the sinuses accumulates fluid and pus, causing blockage (sinus obstruction), known as sinus infection or rhinosinusitis.

Sinusitis is classified into several stages: acute (sinusitis symptoms lasting less than 4 weeks), subacute (4-12 weeks), and chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks, recurring frequently leading to edema and blockage of the sinus openings).

Common symptoms of rhinosinusitis include white, yellow, or greenish nasal discharge, nasal congestion, facial pressure, headache, fever, fatigue, tinnitus, cough, etc. Patients may also experience bad breath, reduced sense of smell and taste, pain and swelling around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead.

According to MSc. Dr. Pham Thi Phuong, Head of the Ear, Nose and Throat Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, recognizing sinusitis through common symptoms helps patients proactively take early measures to improve their condition.

Nasal congestion and runny nose are symptoms of sinusitis. (Image: Freepik) — Nasal congestion and runny nose are symptoms of sinusitis. (Image: *Freepik)*

The most common cause of sinusitis is a viral infection, the common cold. When you have a cold, mucus thickens, becomes sticky, and is difficult to drain. If not cleared, this creates a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infectious complications.

According to Dr. Phuong, anyone can develop sinusitis. Factors that increase the risk include exposure to dusty environments, abnormalities in the nasal and sinus structure (nasal polyps, deviated septum, hypertrophic turbinates...), allergic rhinitis, asthma, and sudden changes in pressure (diving).

Patients should drink plenty of water to thin mucus, rinse their nasal passages regularly as directed by their doctor, and use over-the-counter medications. Elevating the head while sleeping, applying warm, damp compresses to the face to reduce pain, and engaging in gentle exercise can also contribute to improving the condition.

Patients should avoid activities that put pressure on the sinuses, such as scuba diving, flying, and exposure to allergens, dust, and cigarette smoke. Avoid alcohol and cold drinks when suffering from sinusitis to prevent nasal congestion from worsening.

Depending on the severity of the condition, its cause, and the patient's preferences, doctors may treat it with medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, mucolytics, and decongestants. Surgery is indicated when chronic sinusitis symptoms recur frequently and medical treatment is ineffective.

Dr. Phuong stated that there are two surgical methods for treating sinusitis: endoscopic sinus surgery and open surgery. Endoscopic sinus surgery is less invasive, requires no skin incisions, results in less bleeding, and allows for faster patient recovery.

Dr. Phuong noted that the weather tends to get colder as Tet approaches, and dust and pollen in the air also increase. Patients should wear masks when going out, wrap themselves in warm scarves and cover their ears when the weather is cold, and wash their hands frequently. Using a humidifier at home and cleaning it regularly helps prevent mold growth and sinusitis.

When symptoms persist for a long time, patients should consult an ENT specialist for proper treatment and to prevent dangerous complications.

Khanh Ngoc

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