What is Pediatric Sinusitis?
Most commonly known as a sinus infection, sinusitis occurs when nasal passage cavities become inflamed and swollen. Although rare in children under six or seven years of age due to underdeveloped frontal sinuses, sinus infections are not uncommon in older children. Sinusitis causes also include infection, deviated septum, or growths in the sinus cavity known as nasal polyps.
Symptoms of a Sinus Infection in Children
The symptoms of a sinus infection often resemble a regular cold. The most common signs of sinusitis in children include:
- Cold symptoms that last more than 10 to 14 days
- Low-grade fever
- Thick nasal drainage, yellow or green in color
- Postnasal drip
- Sore throat
- Cough,
- Bad breath
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Headache (most common in children age six and older)
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Swelling around the eyes
A sinus infection that lasts 12 weeks or more may signify chronic sinusitis. If your child suffers from a bout of chronic sinusitis or a series of sinus infections several times in one year, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with an otolaryngologist to determine the cause and an appropriate treatment plan.
Treating Childhood Sinusitis
In many cases, a regular sinus infection will clear up on its own with mild pain relievers, decongestants, antihistamines, antibiotics (in case of bacterial infections), and a warm compress to relieve pressure around the nose and eyes. Pediatric sinus surgery may be necessary in cases of chronic and unresponsive infections. To learn more about sinusitis, visit medlineplus.gov.
Contact an ENT Specialist in Birmingham Today!
If your child is suffering signs of sinusitis or other ear, nose, and throat condition, contact Pediatric ENT Associates at the Children’s Hospital of Alabama at (205) 831-0101 to schedule a consultation today!
