Sinusitis

Content provided by Healthwise

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the inside of the nose and facial sinuses. Facial sinuses are hollow spaces, or cavities, located in the skull around the eyes, cheeks, and nose.

When a mucous membrane becomes inflamed, it swells, blocking the drainage from the sinuses into the nose and throat and causing pressure and pain in the sinuses. Bacteria are more likely to grow in sinuses that are unable to drain properly. Symptoms may include pain and pressure in the face, yellow or greenish discharge from the nose, nasal congestion, and sometimes a fever, a chronic cough that produces mucus, and a reduced sense of taste or smell.

Sinusitis often improves on its own, but it may need to be treated with antibiotics or other medications if symptoms are severe or last longer than 4 weeks.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.