Diagnosis
In principle, these typical symptoms are already sufficient to make a diagnosis of sinusitis. Especially in the case of severe unclear progressions, a rhinoscopy can be considered in addition, in which the physician uses a rhinoscope to view the nasal cavities from the inside and thus assess the mucous membranes. In addition, an x-ray as well as computer tomographic images of the nose and the paranasal sinuses can be taken to determine the exact anatomical features and the location of an inflammation. Acute viral sinusitis usually heals completely within a few days to weeks.
Prognosis
Inflammations of the sphenoid sinus usually heal quickly and without complications. In very rare cases, it can spread to neighboring organs, such as the eye socket or even the meninges or brain. Further carry-over then becomes noticeable with tiredness, a clear feeling of illness, strong fever and visual disturbances with infestation of the eye socket and/or head and neck pain with participation of the brain or the meninges. A further spread of the infection into the ears is also conceivable. Secondary middle ear infection is frequently observed, especially in children.
Prophylaxis
Sinusitis is not always completely avoidable, but some tips can be used to minimize the risk of the disease. Firstly, what strengthens the immune system as a whole helps; this includes a healthy, balanced diet, sufficient sleep, general hygiene measures (washing hands, disposing of handkerchiefs in good time, not sneezing into your hand) and a sufficient fluid intake – especially in dry ambient air. It is also advisable to avoid cigarettes, since smoking affects the mucous membranes of the nose, among other things, and thus significantly increases the risk of infection.
Especially for the paranasal sinuses, the way in which the nose is brushed plays an important role. It is important here not to press in both nostrils at the same time and to apply a great deal of force, as this can lead to secretion drainage problems. Light nose blowing, with little pressure, is the better method. Sneezing should not be suppressed either, as this increases the pressure inside the nose and may cause secretion to be flushed backwards into the sinuses.
