Sinusitis in children can often be a challenging problem, both to diagnose and treat. Children with sinusitis frequently have symptoms of: • Cough
• Behavioral changes
• Fatigue
• Eye swelling
• Fever
• Nausea
• Thick nasal or post-nasal drainage
Viral respiratory infections have similar symptoms to sinus infections in children; however, if symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days, it is likely your child may be suffering from a sinus infection. Most children respond well to medical treatment for sinusitis, which may include antibiotics, nasal saline, and nasal steroids. If your child has symptoms lasting for more that 12 weeks, or more than 4-6 sinus infections per year, it is an indication that your child may need to see a sinus specialist. It is important that any factors which may contribute to the development of sinusitis also be identified and addressed, such as: • Allergies
• Stomach reflux
• Problems with the immune system
• Cystic fibrosis
Children who do not respond to medical treatment may be candidates for surgical treatment, which may include adenoidectomy or sinus surgery.
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