Rhinosinusitis Overview by Dr. Ganesh Ramalinggam

RHINOSINUSITIS

Rhinosinusitis refers to inflammation of nasal cavity and the sinuses. There are 4 paranasal sinuses in the human skull.

Functions of paranasal sinuses:

• Reduce apparent weight of the head
• Humidifying and heating inhaled air
• Increasing resonance of speech
• Acting as crumple zone to protect vital structures in the event of facial trauma

Changes leading to Rhinosinusitis:

1. Viral infection causing mucosal inflammation which obstructs sinus opening
2. Impaired sinus ventilation causing congestion and mucous retention
3. Impaired clearance of inflammatory debris and infectious material
4. Ideal environment for bacterial growth in sinus cavity

Signs & symptoms of Rhinosinusitis:

• Fever with nasal block
• Foul smelling and purulent nasal discharge
• Facial pain & pressure
• Headache
• Loss of smell
• Post nasal drip causing cough & purulent phlegm
• Bad breath

Complications of Rhinosinusitis:

• Orbital abscess
• Intracranial infection
• Osteomyelitis of frontal or maxillary bones

Sinusitis which did not respond to nasal spray and antibiotics can be treated surgically via ENDOSCOPIC SINUS SURGERY. This surgery is done within nasal cavity via the use of endoscope which is inserted inside the nose to provide a detailed view of the nasal cavity.

For consultation & more information, visit Dr Ganesh ENT clinic in Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat for further examination and or click here for appointment