Sinusitis

http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/info/infectious/diagnose/sinusitis.htm

(link no longer works and article no longer online but have left it in)

What is bacterial sinus infection?

An infection in the sinuses caused by bacteria. The chances of getting a bacterial sinus infection may be influenced by a virus like a cold or other upper respiratory infections (URIs), allergies, and being around irritants and pollutants such as tobacco smoke.

What are the symptoms?

Cold or URI symptoms that do not get better after 10 days
Stuffy and runny nose that may be thick or thin, or clear to green
A cough that lasts a long time and may be worse at night
Other things you may see are a low fever, sore throat, low energy, bad breath, a puffy face or eyes, and/or pain in the face, ear or teeth
Colds may be like a sinus infection but usually start getting better by 10 days

How is it diagnosed?

Sinus infections are usually diagnosed by cold symptoms that DO NOT get better after 10 days (see above for symptoms), and the child seems sicker than with a usual cold or URI
The color of the nasal drainage does not tell the difference between a cold and a sinus infection
Blood work and x-rays are not usually needed

How is it treated?
If it is decided that the child has a sinus infection and not a viral infection, antibiotics may be given.

If antibiotics are needed, the doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will explain exactly how and for how long to give the medicine. It is important to use all of the medicine. It is important not to use old medicine you may have at home.

Medicine may be administered to reduce fever and may be given for the child's comfort. Never give aspirin without talking to the doctor first. Cough medicine and decongestants are not usually recommended and should be used only when agreed on by the child's doctor/nurse.

Other ways to make the child comfortable may include rest and fluids. The child may be more comfortable in a cool room. But, every child is different, and you probably know best what makes your child comfortable.

Hand washing will help stop spreading germs to other family members.

Smoke is very irritating especially for someone with sinusitis. Do not smoke or let anyone else smoke near a child with sinusitis. Keep smoke out of your home.

When should I call my child's doctor/nurse?

You should feel free to call anytime you are worried and want to talk to your child's doctor
Call your doctor back if your child has not improved or worsens within 72 hours
Call your doctor if you notice redness or swelling around the eyes
Call your doctor for a severe headache, high fever or the child seems much sicker

How long will my child be sick?

Although your child may begin to improve in 1-3 days, some symptoms may last for several more weeks
Some children may need a change in antibiotics if they are not improving in 2-4-days
Every infection is different, so be sure to ask your doctor/nurse what to expect with your child
Talk to your doctor/nurse about when to send your child back to day care or school

Antibiotic Use

Antibiotics may not be given if your doctor/nurse believes your child's illness is due to a virus. Using antibiotics when they are not absolutely needed may cause them not to work the next time they are used.

Patient Education Program I 9/02
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If you or your child experiences unusual, unexpected or severe side effects from following the procedures or directions contained in this document, we advise you to immediately call your primary care physician, your local emergency room, or in cases of extreme adverse reaction or side effects, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Pediatric care is constantly improving and dealing with new challenges. New ideas, practices and research prompt continuous changes in our understanding and recommendations. These pages represent our best efforts but are in no way meant to replace the critical dialogue and recommendations of your pediatrician or health care professional. Information within "Health Topics" is believed to be reliable and generally in accord with the standards accepted at the time of publication. However, the possibility of human error and changes in medical sciences prevent the authors and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center from offering these pages as anything more than starting points for care decisions and educational insights that parents, pediatricians, health care professionals and children must make together.

If you believe you, your child, or someone you know, suffer from the conditions described herein, please see your health care provider. Do not attempt to treat yourself, your child, or anyone else without proper medical supervision.

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