A Pediatric ENTs Take on Sinusitis, Common Cold, and Treatment Plans

Parents often find it difficult to tell pediatric sinusitis from a common cold. It's not surprising in the slightest since both the conditions come with many similar symptoms. Usually, the two can be told apart based on the duration for which they last. A common cold will last for a couple of days and disappear as suddenly as it came. However, if you find the symptoms lingering beyond a few days, it is likely that you should take your child to a pediatric ENT.

Pediatric Sinusitis Vs. Common Cold

Symptoms of Pediatric Sinusitis

  • Cold with coughing and sneezing that refuses to subside even after 10-14 days

  • Fever that is usually mild but can worsen if not treated

  • The body produces thick yellow-green mucous

  • Post-nasal drip accompanied by a sore throat

  • Bad breath even after brushing and following usual dental hygiene practices

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Swollen eyes and face

  • Uncharacteristic crankiness and fatigue

  • If your child is 6 or older, they may even complain of headaches

Symptoms of Common Cold

  • Congestion accompanied by a running nose

  • Coughing and sneezing that usually lasts for a day or two

  • Mild fever and body ache

Types of Sinusitis in Children

In children, like adults, sinusitis can be classified into 3 different categories.

  • Acute Sinusitis (Short-term) - Acute pediatric sinusitis lasts less than 12 weeks. It responds well to general treatment.

  • Chronic Sinusitis (Long-term) - Chronic pediatric sinusitis is the term used to describe a sinus infection that lasts longer than 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis is treated by addressing the underlying cause.

  • Recurrent Sinusitis - Recurrent pediatric sinusitis is when a child suffers from recurrent episodes of acute sinusitis. 3 or more bouts of sinus infection in a year fall under this category.

Diagnostic Tools for Pediatric Sinusitis

Pediatric ENTs conduct a physical examination to gauge the symptoms of sinusitis. The physical exam is followed by:

  • An X-ray of the sinuses may reveal mucus accumulation in the cavities

  • CT scans are a more detailed version of X-rays

  • Swab test of the nose to check for bacteria and germs

Treatment Options for Pediatric Sinusitis

The treatment plan undertaken differs based on the type and cause of the sinus infection. Acute sinusitis treatment for example is different from the treatment for patients with chronic sinusitis. Usually, treatment plans for short-term sinus infections follow a symptom-centric approach. Antibiotics are effective for bacterial sinusitis. Antibiotics will visibly lessen cough, fever, and body pain as early as 3 days into the course.

For infections prompted by allergies, the pediatric ENT will prescribe antihistamines. Other treatment options include -

  • Corticosteroid nasal drops and sprays

  • Immunotherapy with allergy shots

  • Decongestants and gentle saline drops and sprays

Chronic sinusitis may warrant surgical intervention in rare cases. Patients suffering from adenoiditis may be operated upon to remove the errant adenoid tissue.

Talk to a Pediatric ENT in Oklahoma today

Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, LLC has been around for 35 years. Our highly efficient and well-trained team of physicians is known to provide unparalleled healthcare to patients of all ages. Visit our website to contact us for more details.

**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.

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