“Our Otorhinolaryngology service performs several examinations and procedures for the better diagnosis of both chronic and acute sinusitis, including nasal video endoscopy and rhinomanometry, useful for studying the flow of air that passes through the nostrils during breathing. In addition, it offers personalized treatments, whether based on drugs or surgery, through video-endoscopic surgery”, says Dr. Jorge Centeno, a prominent otolaryngologist at our clinic, who points out relevant aspects of this condition:

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the nose and the cavities located around it, called paranasal sinuses. The severity of this condition depends on the type of sinusitis that develops, whether it is chronic or acute, infectious or non-infectious, or whether or not polyps are present.

What are its symptoms?

In acute cases, there is a purulent nasal discharge, nasal obstruction, facial pain, impaired smell, headache and, in some cases, fever. In chronic conditions, the complaints are long-lasting and have symptoms that can hide their true nature, such as nasal obstruction, headache, and a bad nasal odor.

Which are the risk factors?

Chronic nasal inflammatory conditions, such as allergic rhinitis, nicotine abuse, drugs, acute viral infections, and intranasal anatomical deformities.

How can we prevent it?

Taking a treatment for chronic nasal symptoms and avoiding environmental pollutants. That is, avoiding or controlling risk factors.

What is its treatment?

It is essential to deflate the nose using saline solution, if there is a lot of runny nose, antihistamines are a good option. In cases of acute bacterial sinusitis, antibiotics are indicated. If it is a chronic sinusitis, it is treated with intranasal corticosteroids for a long time. If improvement is not achieved, the possibility of surgical intervention can be evaluated.

Dr. Jorge Centeno
Otolaryngologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma