Rhinosinusitis
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What is Rhinosinusitis?
Rhinosinusitis, also known as sinusitis, is inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. This can take the form of acute, subacute, or chronic rhinosinusitis, depending on the duration of symptoms. The acute form can last up to 4 weeks, subacute lasts 4 to 12 weeks, and the chronic diagnosis is reserved for cases lasting longer than 12 weeks.
Causes of Rhinosinusitis
Rhinosinusitis can occur as an infection, or an allergy. The symptoms of stuffy, runny, congested nose are very similar between the two. If it is caused by an allergy (allergy rhinitis) the condition may be improved by avoiding allergens like dust, pollen, and cat dander. An infection requires treatment if it does not go away within one week.
Most cases are caused by a virus and children are particularly prone to contracting them. If you see that your child is coughing, sneezing, has a runny nose, and watery eyes it is likely he or she has the condition. Washing hands and sneezing into a tissue or handkerchief will help limit its spread. Longer lasting rhinosinusitis may be an allergy or bacterial infection.