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What are the sinuses?
Sinuses are moist air spaces in our bones around the nose
We have sinuses in the cheekbones, forehead, between the eyes and behind the eyes and nasal passages
Your child’s sinuses grow until they are in their teenage years
What is a sinus infection?
Irritation and inflammation of the sinuses, also called sinusitis
What can cause a sinus infection?
Allergies that keep the sinuses clogged for a prolonged period
Cold viruses that lead to a bacterial infection
recurrent smoke exposure causing a constant irritation of your child’s sinuses
What are sinus infection symptoms?
Cold symptoms that last longer than 10 days
(may include: sore throat, nasal discharge, cough or ear pain)
Your child may have a fever beyond day 5 to 6 of symptoms
Your child’s appetite maybe down
Your child’s activity and energy level maybe decreased
Your child might tell you that light bothers them
Your child may complain of a headache at times
Your child may say they feel dizzy
Parts of your child’s face may look swollen
Even with good oral hygiene, your child’s breath may continue to smell
How is a sinus infection treated?
Your child’s provider may encourage sinus rinses with nasal saline
Encourage your child to rest as needed
Encourage your child to drink lots of fluid
Your child’s provider may prescribe antibiotics
Your child’s provider may encourage supportive measures alone, as some sinus infections will resolve with time
How can I prevent my child from having a sinus infection?
Encourage regular hand washing
Minimize any exposures that you know trigger your child such as allergies and smoke
Avoid others who are sick
Be sure to give your child any medications as prescribed
When do I call my child’s provider?
If your child is not improving in two to three days with medication prescribed
If your child’s symptoms get worse
If your child is not drinking fluids well
If your child is having any trouble breathing
This publication was adapted from information within American Academy of Pediatrics Patient Education Handouts, UpToDate Guidelines and Healthychildren.org and Rady Children’s Hospital Website
Reviewed by: TT D.O, AR D.O. | 07/2023