Acute bacterial sinusitis

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Acute bacterial sinusitis

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Dr. Arthur L Burnett
Updated 2024-08-22
Published 2024-03-06

What is it

Acute Sinusitis – Infectious Diseases

What is acute bacterial sinusitis?

Acute bacterial sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses, which are the air-filled spaces in the bones of the face near the nose. It is caused by bacteria and often follows a viral upper respiratory infection. Symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, purulent nasal discharge, fever, and a decreased sense of smell.

How is acute bacterial sinusitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on symptoms and physical examination. Healthcare providers look for signs like tenderness in the sinus area, discolored nasal discharge, and nasal obstruction. In some cases, imaging tests like a CT scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis, especially in severe or recurrent cases.

What is the treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis?

Treatment often involves antibiotics to address the bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotic depends on the suspected bacteria, patient allergies, and local resistance patterns. Additionally, symptomatic treatment like nasal decongestants, saline nasal sprays, and pain relievers may be recommended to alleviate discomfort.

What are the common bacteria causing acute bacterial sinusitis?

The most common bacteria involved in acute bacterial sinusitis include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. These bacteria can colonize the nasal cavity and lead to infection, particularly following a viral upper respiratory tract infection.

Can acute bacterial sinusitis lead to complications?

While rare, complications can occur, especially if the infection spreads to adjacent structures. Possible complications include orbital cellulitis (infection around the eye), abscess formation, meningitis, or a brain abscess. These complications require immediate medical attention.

How can acute bacterial sinusitis be prevented?

Prevention strategies include avoiding upper respiratory infections through good hygiene practices, getting vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcus, managing allergies effectively, and avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke. Maintaining good nasal and sinus health with saline irrigations can also be helpful.

When should someone seek medical attention for sinusitis?

Medical attention should be sought if sinusitis symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days without improvement, if there is a high fever, severe facial pain or swelling, vision changes, confusion, stiff neck, or if symptoms worsen after initial improvement. These could be signs of a complication or a need for different treatment.

Common symptoms of acute bacterial sinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, thick nasal discharge, fever, headache, and fatigue. The condition is usually diagnosed by a healthcare professional based on the symptoms, physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests.

Treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis often involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. Other supportive measures may include pain relievers, nasal saline irrigation, and decongestants to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain the sinuses.

It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist for longer than a week. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

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Causes of Acute Bacterial Sinusitis

Bacterial infection: Acute bacterial sinusitis is primarily caused by a bacterial infection. Common bacteria responsible for this condition include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
Previous viral infection: Acute bacterial sinusitis often develops after a viral upper respiratory tract infection, such as a common cold or flu. This occurs when the viral infection causes inflammation and congestion in the sinuses, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive.
Impaired sinus drainage: Conditions that hinder the normal drainage of the sinuses, such as nasal polyps, deviated septum, or structural abnormalities, can lead to the accumulation of mucus and bacteria, increasing the likelihood of developing acute bacterial sinusitis.
Weak immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or undergoing certain medical treatments like chemotherapy, are more susceptible to bacterial infections, including acute bacterial sinusitis.
Smoking: Tobacco smoke irritates the nasal passages and impairs the normal functioning of cilia, the tiny hair-like structures that help move mucus and prevent infection. This can increase the risk of developing sinusitis, including the bacterial variant.