Chronic Sinus Problems in Children

The sinuses are cavities inside your child's skull, lined with mucous, that connect the nasal passages. When those cavities are blocked or filled with fluid, or appear swollen, red and irritated, sinusitis likely will be diagnosed.

Types

• Sinusitis may be acute or chronic, explains the National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus website. Acute sinusitis may last a few weeks, but a chronic condition can go on much longer.

Symptoms

• Acute or chronic, sinusitis symptoms have some similarities such as coughing, fever, exhaustion, head pain and runny and/or stuffed nose. A chronic infection, however, will be less severe.

Diagnosis

• A medical exam by your pediatrician can confirm an acute sinus infection. For chronic sinus disease, reports Children's Hospital Boston, an examination of the sinus cavities via CT scan is typically needed.

Treatment

• Unlike an acute infection, which is easily treated with antibiotics, a chronic sinus problem may require surgery and medication. According to Dr. Alan Greene, a clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine, "addressing allergies and irritants is the key to reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of sinusitis."

Prevention/Solution

• Dr. Greene also notes that breastfeeding has been linked to fewer sinus infections in children.