Sinus problems
What are the sinuses?
The sinuses are hollow air pockets in the facial bones and skull. We distinguish between the maxillary sinuses, the frontal sinuses, and a couple of smaller sinuses located at the root of the nose. The sinuses are lined with a thin layer of mucus that normally produces a small amount of mucus that keeps the sinuses fresh and moist.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an inflammation of these cavities. Symptoms include nasal congestion, impaired sense of smell, facial pain and headaches.
Occurrence
- Research shows that the prevalence of sinusitis in western parts of the world varies between 5-15%.
- No definite figures for the incidence of the disease in this country
Common causes
- Chronic sinusitis can begin quite acutely as a non-specific upper respiratory tract infection or acute sinusitis that does not resolve, or the condition can develop slowly and progressively over months and years.
- Acute sinusitis is caused by the spread of bacteria or viruses from the nose into the sinuses. Such spread typically occurs in connection with colds. After such an acute sinusitis, pus can easily remain in the sinuses if the passage from the sinuses to the nose is narrow. This plaster can lead to a constant flare-up of inflammation, which can eventually damage the mucous membranes. When this happens, the resistance to new infections becomes poor, leading to a vicious circle of chronic inflammation.
- Sinusitis is more likely to develop in people where the nose is crooked or damaged, or when there are polyps or allergies that can lead to blockages of the sinuses and nose. Smoking, including passive smoking, is among the predisposing factors.
- Chronic sinusitis is a complex inflammatory condition and not just a bacterial infection, although bacterial infections can complicate all forms of chronic sinusitis.
Who can help you?
One of our ear, nose and throat specialists will be able to perform a satisfactory examination in order to make the correct diagnosis and start appropriate treatment.
We have standardized procedures as well as access to state-of-the-art equipment to ensure our patients are thoroughly and quickly assessed.