Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of the membrane lining any of the sinuses, which are the hollow spaces in the skull surrounding the nose. This condition can arise when something disrupts the airflow into the sinuses or blocks the drainage from them. The passages, known as ostia, can become blocked due to swelling of the tissue lining them or from other tissue growths, often resulting from colds, allergies, or irritants like nasal sprays, pollutants, or smoke. In rare cases, tumors or growths can also obstruct the sinuses. When mucus becomes trapped, it creates an ideal environment for bacterial infections. Typical symptoms of sinusitis include headaches, facial pain or tenderness, fever, cloudy or discolored nasal discharge, a sensation of nasal congestion, and coughing. Acute sinusitis is typically managed with medication, while chronic sinusitis may necessitate extended antibiotic treatment and possibly a procedure to drain the sinuses.
