Maxillary Sinusitis

Maxillary sinusitis is an inflammation of the maxillary sinus. Located on each side of the nose, a sinus is a hollow cavity that can become blocked by mucous and filled with fluid.

Causes

• Maxillary sinusitis can be acute or chronic. Causes include infections and allergies that contribute to excessive mucous production that block air flow. The air pressure in the sinus drops when air is forced into the bloodstream. Mucous is then drawn into the sinus, where microbes and white blood cells can accumulate, increasing pressure in the sinus.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include headache, nasal congestion, impaired smell, cough with discharge, toothache and bad breath. Pain is typically located in the area beneath the eye. Yellow or green nasal discharge can occur in acute conditions. If vision is affected or the eye swells, immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent the possibility of blindness.

Treatment

• Treatment is designed to drain the sinus and kill germs if the sinus is infected. Nasal sprays, antibiotics, and steam treatments are typical treatments. Surgery may be used in chronic conditions. Allergy medications can be effective in some patients.