Sinusitis.. is not just a common cold as many people think, but an infection and inflammation occurring in the sinus cavities located in the skull around the nasal cavity. Therefore, it is called “sinusitis.” If left chronic for a long time, the disease may progress and become severe, potentially leading to death. Dr. Davin Yaowapolkul, an otolaryngology specialist and head and neck cancer surgeon at Phyathai 2 Hospital, explained the differences between a cold and sinusitis, as well as diagnosis and treatment…
How is sinusitis different from a cold?
A cold is a disease caused by an infection of the upper respiratory tract, including the throat and nose. Sinusitis, on the other hand, is an infection inside the sinus cavities located beside both nasal cavities, including the cheeks, forehead, base of the skull, and between the eye sockets. The infection can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Causes may include direct exposure to pathogens, such as unclean water entering the nose, or secondary infection from a preceding cold, chronic allergies, or nasal polyps.
What symptoms indicate it’s not just a cold but likely “sinusitis”?
Normally, symptoms of a common cold improve and resolve within 7-10 days. However, if symptoms persist longer or worsen progressively, along with the following symptoms: thick green nasal discharge or mucus, nasal congestion, and pain in any specific sinus cavity area, it should be suspected that the patient has sinusitis.
Accurate sinusitis diagnosis with sinuscopy
Sinuscopy is an examination of the nasal cavity using a small video camera with images displayed on a monitor. This test is used to detect abnormalities in the nasal area. For sinusitis examination, a small tube-like camera is inserted through the nose, allowing direct visualization of the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity and nasopharynx. The advantage of sinuscopy is that it can detect signs of sinusitis, tumors, nasal cavities, and nasal polyps. Patients can view the mucous membrane images of the nose in real-time Full HD along with the doctor.
Can sinusitis be completely cured?
Sinusitis can be cured by treating the underlying cause. For example, if caused by infection, treatment involves antibiotics. If medication is ineffective, complications arise from spreading infection, or there are abnormalities in the sinus openings such as narrowing due to tumors or nasal polyps, surgical treatment of the sinuses is necessary.
Endoscopic sinus surgery… a new option for patients
For chronic sinusitis patients who do not respond to medication, endoscopic sinus surgery is the standard treatment. Currently, endoscopic surgery through the nasal openings has been improved in image clarity and uses computer tomography (CT) imaging guidance during surgery, allowing doctors to treat effectively and reduce the risk of surgical complications.
Leaving chronic sinusitis untreated… may cause complications
If sinusitis spreads to the eyes, it can cause eye swelling, pain, double vision, and may lead to blindness. If the inflammation spreads to the brain, symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, high fever, muscle weakness, and can be fatal.
Dr. Davin Yaowapolkul
Otolaryngology Specialist
Head and Neck Surgery Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
