Khaberni - Dr. Anna Nikitina, an ENT specialist, stated that leaving colds untreated can develop into sinusitis. So what are the factors that cause the disease to progress?.
The doctor warned against confusing nasal inflammation and sinusitis, noting that severe nasal discharge does not necessarily mean there is sinus inflammation. Thus, it is more accurate to talk about nasal inflammation instead of sinusitis in most cases.
The doctor said that sinusitis develops when the drainage of mucus from the nasal cavity is impaired due to swelling of the mucous membrane, creating a suitable environment for bacterial growth and inflammation. Those most at risk are individuals who do not rinse their noses when they run, or those suffering from anatomical conditions like a deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps, or allergic rhinitis.
She added that the inflammation could sometimes be associated with a dental infection, known as odontogenic sinusitis, and usually develops with upper tooth decay or dental pulp inflammation.
She explained that symptoms of sinusitis include long-term nasal congestion typically on one side, pain and pressure in the forehead and cheeks and the bridge of the nose, especially when tilting the head forward, with thick mucus or pus-like secretions, sometimes with a foul odor, and a headache when lying down for a long time.
To prevent the progression of the inflammation, the doctor recommends immediately treating a runny nose, using decongestant drops for no more than five days, and regularly washing the nose. It is also advisable to maintain humidity levels between 45 and 60% during the heating season and to avoid exposure to cold.
The doctor emphasized the need not to self-medicate when inflammation starts, explaining that diagnosis should be made by an ENT specialist using computed tomography or endoscopy. If necessary, antibiotics and nasal wash are prescribed, and surgical correction may be required in complicated cases.
