Unfortunately, for many young children, the sinuses do not develop until late adolescence. Although very small, newborns have ethnoid sinuses (between the eyes) and maxillary sinuses (those located behind the cheek). However, unlike adults who treat the symptoms of sinus infection in pediatric cases, it is difficult to diagnose because often these symptoms can occur in case of other health problems, such as allergies or viral infections. Here are some tips for treating sinus infections in your child.
How to tell if your child has a sinus infection
Common symptoms of infection include lumps that reflect more than two weeks, often with a low temperature, nasal drainage, which is thick, yellow or green, which often leads to sore throat, cough, odor, or even nausea and vomiting. Your child may show irritability and fatigue, swelling around areas of the sinus, especially around the eyes. In addition, children aged six years and older may report headaches.
Because of the structure of the ear and nasal passages and sinuses in the first years of life, infections are more common. As a rule, it is just a cold, viruses or may be aggravated by allergies. However, they are usually classified as an infection if symptoms are present for more than ten days. Reducing exposure to known allergies and environmental pollutants, such as tobacco smoke, can help reduce the risk of infection.
How to treat sinusitis
Pediatricians often prescribe antibiotic therapy to children with a high level of success. Nasal decongestant sprays (often saline) can also be prescribed to immediately relieve nasal congestion and thinning mucus. You may be tempted to give your child an antihistamine or a decongestant, but this is not recommended. There was no evidence that they were effective in treating upper respiratory tract infections in young children and should not be provided to children under two years of age.
Acute sinusitis
If your child has been diagnosed with acute sinusitis, it simply means that this is a temporary condition and should improve within a few days after starting treatment. Even if your child makes a complete improvement, it is important that you continue your child’s antibiotic round. If your child’s condition has not improved, other medicines may be prescribed.
Chronic sinusitis
Sinusitis, defined as chronic, refers to conditions lasting more than three months. It can also be defined as sinusitis symptoms that occur more than four to six times a year. In any case, you should seek help from a nose and throat specialist for a pediatric ear. In extreme cases, your doctor may recommend modern medical or surgical procedures to treat your baby’s sinuses.
Sinusitis in children is often different and more complex than similar cases in adults. Children are prone to coughing, bad breath, irritability, swelling around the eyes, and a runny nose or nasal drip, often resulting in sore throat.
