Sinusitis in Children – Why Does It Happen?

Unfortunately, childhood is not only about happiness and fun; illnesses and infections can occur unexpectedly, much to the despair of parents. Children are susceptible to contracting and facing various health problems throughout childhood due to their low immunity. Infections, bacteria, and diseases in general may arise for no apparent reason, as is the case with sinusitis in children.

Sinusitis occurs due to an inflammation of the mucous membrane in the areas around the nose, eyes, and cheekbones, commonly known as the paranasal sinuses. The problem can result from an infectious condition or allergic issues and is caused by fungi, viruses, or bacteria.

Usually, cases of sinusitis appear as complications of flu and colds, due to the large build-up of secretions in the affected area. The problem is divided into two types: it can be chronic or acute. Chronic sinusitis is defined when swelling and inflammation of the paranasal sinuses last for more than 12 weeks, persisting even after treatment directed by a physician. Acute sinusitis, on the other hand, responds immediately to treatment and usually resolves within 12 weeks, and is typically triggered by another health condition.

Certain factors can contribute to chronic sinusitis in children, such as allergies, rhinitis, and asthma, which often block the sinus passages and cause infections. Deviated septum is also a major factor, as misalignment in the nasal septum can restrict breathing and directly cause the problem. The growth of nasal polyps is another common issue, since tissue growth in this area can completely hinder airflow. Any other condition that affects the sinuses and blocks airflow and breathing can trigger chronic sinusitis. Appropriate treatment and ongoing medical care are necessary to control the discomfort caused by this condition.

Symptoms and Treatment of Pediatric Sinusitis

Whether chronic or acute, the symptoms of sinusitis are usually very similar, which is why it can be difficult to diagnose early on. Besides the symptoms, the duration of the infection is also analyzed. Symptoms such as facial pain, especially in the forehead area, are among the main complaints of patients suffering from sinusitis. Loss of smell or reduced sense of smell can also occur and are signs of chronic sinusitis.

Earache, jaw pain, and bad breath are clear signs of the problem, which can also be accompanied by frequent throat inflammation, nausea caused by secretions draining from the sinuses, and coughing. As mentioned earlier, all these symptoms can be recurrent in both chronic and acute sinusitis; the only difference is how long they last in the patient. Diagnosis should be made after a medical examination of the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and sinuses. Usually, a facial CT scan is requested to finalize the diagnosis, as it allows detailed observation of the sinuses and nasal area.

If the specialist finds it necessary, additional exams such as nasal endoscopy, nasal cultures, and allergy tests may also be requested, along with blood tests to analyze and detect possible diseases that affect immunity. Treatment will be prescribed according to the test results and tailored to actual needs, which is why each case should be thoroughly evaluated before starting. In some cases, only medications to alleviate symptoms may be prescribed; in others, more controlled and strict treatment may be required so the problem is permanently resolved.

In most common cases, the use of saline solution, or physiological saline, helps dissolve the nasal secretions that cause severe pain and may be combined with the use of nasal corticosteroids, which will treat the infection. In more severe cases, corticosteroids and antibiotics are recommended, especially for bacterial sinusitis, where only antibiotics can effectively resolve the situation.

For patients whose sinusitis is resistant to all recommended treatments, endoscopic surgery may be indicated to remove all tissue or material obstructing the airway. The problem is uncomfortable and painful, but there are various types of treatments available to relieve and solve it permanently. To follow the right treatment, see an otolaryngologist, who will evaluate and recommend the best therapy.