Sinus Infections
Definition and Causes
A sinus infection is an infection of one of several sinus cavities that normally drain into the nose. Blockages of the opening between the sinus and the nose can lead to a sinus infection (as caused by colds and/or nasal allergies). Risk factors include day care attendance and exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke.
Symptoms
Acute sinus infection symptoms include cough and/or runny nose that does not improve after 10 to 14 days. It can be accompanied by high fever with green or yellow nasal discharge for 3 days, dark circles under the eyes, bad breath, pain around the face and headache (often appearing as behavioral changes in young children), irritability and lethargy in older children.
Complications
If a sinus infection is not treated, a child could develop serious complications including infection of the tissues around the eye. This may damage vision, cause infection of the brain, and can lead to neurological injury.
Treatment
Antibiotics are the usual treatment for an acute sinus infection. Follow your doctor’s instructions closely. If you stop the antibiotics too soon, some of the bacteria that caused the original infection may still be present and can cause an infection to start over again.
Home Care
Rinse the nose with saline drops (there are many over-the-counter saline drops available). Your doctor may advise a topical nasal decongestant (such as Afrin or Neosynephrine – for 3 days only) and/or prescribe a nasal steroid spray to help decrease swelling inside the nose.
To relieve sinus pain or discomfort with fever, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin).
When to Call the Doctor
Call your child’s doctor if:
- You feel your child is getting worse, develops a stiff neck, or develops redness or swelling of the face.
- If pain or fever are not gone within 48 hours of starting antibiotic treatment. Your doctor may need to prescribe a different antibiotic or refer to a specialist to obtain a culture of the infection.