Frontal Sinusitis: Meaning, Diagnosis and Overview

What is Frontal Sinusitis?

When the sinus cavities behind your forehead (above the nose just behind the eyes) become inflamed, it is known as Frontal Sinusitis. It can be both acute (lasts up to 3 weeks) and chronic (long periods).

OVERVIEW FRONTAL SINUSITIS

Recovery Time

  • Symptoms of Frontal Sinusitis infection resolve slowly and may persist for two to three weeks, whether antibiotics are taken or not.
  • If a patient has severe Frontal Sinusitis or experiences recurring episodes, it may be necessary to consider surgical treatments.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is done by the physical examination of the nasal cavity for signs of polyps (mucosal growth) and inflammation. The doctor may ask for mucus sample as well. Other tests include
  • Nasal Endoscopy to look inside your sinus and nasal cavities
  • Imaging tests with a CT scan or MRI
  • Allergy tests
  • Blood tests for other possible causes of sinusitis

FAQs prepared by doctor

Q1.  Why do I have to keep my nose clear? I can breathe through my mouth.
It is extremely important to keep the nose clear so it is possible to breathe through the nose. It has been found that air exchange into the sinuses occurs twice as rapidly with nasal breathing. The air exchange will reduce the likelihood of bacteria growing in the sinuses.
 
Q2.  What kind of effects do tobacco smoke and other irritants have on the sinuses?
Tobacco smoke and various other irritants may cause worsening of symptoms. Those irritants include auto exhaust, gasoline fumes, paint fumes, perfume, roach spray and household chemicals such as bleach, etc. Cigarette smoke paralyses the tiny hairs (cilia) which move mucus out of the sinuses. It also causes irritation and inflammation in the nose and respiratory tract. There is no good way to effectively treat these exposures, and as a result they must be avoided.
 
Q3.  What other problems happen as a result of sinusitis?
Sinus problems may also cause all kinds of allergies to worsen (it seems that sinusitis turns on the immune system) and can cause problems with asthma, intestinal symptoms, and a wide variety of other medical problems. Migraines are an especially common manifestation of sinusitis. Although rare, serious complications can occur as a result of sinus infections. This includes spread to the brain, eyes, and a blockage of vessels in the head. In addition, erosion of bone can occur as a result of the infection eating through the sinuses.
   
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