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Has your child been complaining about a blocked nose or frequent colds? Sinusitis could be the reason.

Sinusitis or sinus infection in children is often overlooked. A common cold is okay if it improves over time.  But if it sticks with your child for a longer period without any improvement, then you should pay attention.

If symptoms last longer than 10 to 14 days without any improvement, it may not be a cold but sinusitis. And sinusitis treatment may be necessary in this case.

Catching sinusitis in children early can make a big difference in treatment.  

But how can you exactly know that your child has sinusitis and needs treatment soon?

Understanding this condition is the first move toward managing it.

This is your road map to learn about sinusitis in children, the symptoms of sinusitis in children, its causes, prevention, and treatment.

What are Sinuses?

Sinuses are small, air-filled spaces inside your skull and located behind the nose, forehead, cheeks, and eyes. They are connected to the inside of your nose through tiny openings.

The main job of your sinuses is to help humidify the air you breathe and reduce the weight of your skull. They also produce mucus that helps trap dust, germs, and other particles from entering your body.

Sometimes, when the sinuses get blocked or nasal passages become inflamed, you may feel stuffy, have a headache, or even experience a runny nose. This is known as a viral sinus infection or sinusitis.

There are four different types of sinuses:

• Ethmoid sinus: Located inside the face, around the bridge of the nose. This sinus is present at birth and keeps growing.
• Maxillary sinus: Located inside the face, around the cheeks. This sinus is also present at birth and continues to develop.
• Frontal sinus: Located inside the face, in the forehead area. This sinus develops around 7 years of age.
• Sphenoid sinus: Located deep inside the face, behind the nose. This sinus develops during adolescence.

Young children only have the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses.

The frontal and sphenoid sinuses develop during the teen years. Healthy sinuses are filled with air. When they become inflamed or infected, the lining thickens, and mucus with bacteria fills the sinus cavity.

What is Sinusitis?

 A sinus infection, or sinusitis, in children is an inflammation of the sinus cavities. It often follows a cold or allergy flare-up and can cause symptoms like nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, facial pain or pressure, cough, headache, and sometimes fever.

What Are the Causes of Sinusitis in Children?

A sinus infection can sometimes happen after a cold or viral upper respiratory infection (URI). The URI causes swelling in the nose, which can block the sinuses and lead to a sinus infection. Allergies can also cause a sinus infection because they make the nasal tissue swell and produce more mucus. 

Other conditions that can block the normal flow of mucus from the sinuses can also lead to a sinus infection, including:

• Colds and Respiratory Infections
• Allergies
• Viral or  Bacterial Infections
• Environmental Irritants like smoke, pollution, or strong odors can trigger sinusitis.
• Sinus Blockages
• Abnormal nose structure 
• Tooth infections
• Nose injuries
• Foreign objects stuck in the nose
• Birth disorder with an abnormal roof of the mouth (cleft palate)
• Stomach acid problems (GERD)
• Nasal polyps
• Conditions like cystic fibrosis or weak immune systems
• Enlarged adenoids (tissue behind the nose)
• Immune issues or antibody deficiencies that increase the risk of chronic sinus problems

What are the Symptoms of Pediatric Sinusitis in Children?

These are the most common symptoms of sinusitis in children:

• Younger Children

A runny nose lasting more than 7 to 10 days

Thick green, yellow, or sometimes clear nasal discharge

Cough

• Cough that worsens at night.
• Less frequent coughing during the day.

Stuffy nose or nasal congestion

Swelling around the eyes (Puffy appearance around the eyes)  

Fever  

• Older Children and Adults

Runny nose or common cold symptoms that last longer than 7 to 10 days.

Postnasal Drip (Mucus dripping down the back of the throat)

Headaches

Facial Pain

Nasal congestion 

Sore throat (Pain or irritation in the throat)

Bad breath

Loss of smell

Swelling around the eye

Nausea or vomiting

Symptoms that last longer than usual may point to infection of the sinuses.

How is Pediatric Sinusitis Diagnosed in a Child? 

The Pediatrician will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. They will also do a physical exam.

Physical Exam

• Checking inside the nose with a light to look for swelling
• Looking for polyps in the nose
• Gently pressing on the sinuses to check for pain or infection

Imaging Tests

• X-ray: Takes a basic image of the sinuses
• CT scan: Gives a detailed 3D view of the sinuses
• MRI: Uses strong magnets to show images of the sinuses and surrounding areas

Other Tests

• Sinus cultures: A swab of nasal discharge to check for bacteria or other germs
• Nasal endoscopy: A thin lighted tube is used to look inside the nose and sinuses. A doctor may take a sample for testing bacterial sinusitis.
• Allergy tests
• Blood tests  

What Can I Do to Prevent Sinusitis in My Child?

Preventing sinusitis is similar to avoiding a cold. Here are some tips to prevent sinusitis in children:

• Don’t smoke near your child or let anyone else do it—inside the house, in the car, or anywhere close by. 
• Teach your child to wash their hands properly, especially after using the bathroom or playing with friends. 
• Make sure your child’s vaccinations are up to date to keep them safe and protected.
• Keep your little one away from other kids who are sick. 
• Use a humidifier at home to add some moisture to the air, especially when it feels really dry. 
• Help your child stay healthy with nutritious meals, plenty of water, and exercise. 
• Provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your child’s immune system.
• Use saline sprays or washes regularly to keep their nose from drying out—it’s easy and helps a lot. 
• Don’t push water into your child’s nose like forcing them to jump into a pool). It’s not safe for their sinuses. 
• Limit the time spent in chlorinated pools, as the chlorine can irritate their nose and sinuses. 
• Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor to avoid antibiotic resistance and unnecessary side effects.
• Minimize exposure to known allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust to prevent nasal irritation.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have cold-like symptoms.

–  Follow these steps to avoid sinus infections.  

What Is the Treatment for Sinusitis in Children?

Your pediatrician will decide on the best treatment based on the following:

• Your child’s age, health, and medical history
• How serious the condition is
• Your child’s reaction to medicines or treatments
• How long the sinusitis is expected to last
• Your preference as a parent  

Sinusitis treatment options may include:

• Antibiotics: Your child may need a longer course of antibiotics. Usually prescribed for at least 14 days. But if bacteria aren’t the cause, antibiotics won’t work.
• Nasal spray: This is commonly prescribed to reduce swelling.
• Other medicines: These may include antihistamine or decongestant nasal sprays, saline sprays, or drops to loosen mucus.
• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen can help with pain or discomfort
• Humidifier: This helps add moisture to the air in your child’s room
• Allergy shots (immunotherapy): If allergies are a problem, shots can help reduce reactions to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold.
• Decongestants: Such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or mucus thinners like guaifenesin (Robitussin)
• GERD medications: If acid reflux is contributing to sinus issues
• Adenoid removal surgery
• Endoscopic sinus surgery
• Surgery is an option for chronic sinusitis but is rarely done in children. 

Doctors may not prescribe antibiotics for the first 10 to 14 days unless symptoms are severe, such as fever, facial pain, or eye swelling.

Surgery is considered only if other treatments fail. 

If your child has chronic or recurring sinus infections or still has sinus problems after surgery, visiting an experienced pediatrician at the best pediatric hospital in Ahmedabad may help.

A Note from Motherhood Women’s & Child Care Hospital  

Sinusitis in children can be a challenging condition, but with the right knowledge and care, you can manage it.

As parents, you must stay informed about sinus infection symptoms, prevention, and treatment options.

Always encourage good hygiene practices, manage allergies, and ensure your child stays hydrated.

If sinusitis symptoms worsen over time, don’t hesitate to consult a pediatric specialist at a children’s hospital to treat sinus infections. 

Early sinus diagnosis and proper care can prevent complications of sinusitis and help your child feel better faster.

At Motherhood Women’s & Child Care Hospital, our dedicated team of pediatricians is here to support you with expert advice and personalized care.

Together, we can ensure your little one enjoys healthier, happier days ahead.