Sinusitis, commonly known as a sinus infection, is a condition many associate with adults, but it is increasingly prevalent in children as well. Pediatric sinusitis can affect breathing, sleep, school attendance, and overall health. It is especially troublesome because its symptoms often overlap with common colds or allergies, making it easy to overlook. At Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Dr. P Venu Gopal Reddy, a highly experienced ENT specialist, routinely diagnoses and manages sinusitis in children with an evidence-based, child-friendly approach that ensures both effective relief and long-term wellness.
What is Sinusitis?
The sinuses are air-filled spaces located in the bones of the face and head, surrounding the nasal cavity. These sinuses help humidify the air we breathe, contribute to voice resonance, and reduce skull weight. The inner lining of the sinuses produces mucus, which normally drains through tiny openings into the nasal passages.
Sinusitis occurs when these passages become inflamed or blocked due to infection, allergy, or environmental triggers. This causes mucus to build up inside the sinuses, creating pressure, pain, and breeding grounds for bacteria.
Types of Pediatric Sinusitis
- Acute Sinusitis – Sudden onset, often following a cold or viral illness, lasting less than 4 weeks.
- Subacute Sinusitis – Inflammation lasting 4–12 weeks.
- Chronic Sinusitis – Persistent inflammation lasting more than 12 weeks, often with less severe but ongoing symptoms.
- Recurrent Acute Sinusitis – Four or more episodes of acute sinusitis per year with symptom-free periods in between.
Why Children Are More Vulnerable
Children’s sinuses are not fully developed until the teenage years. Their narrower nasal passages and immature immune systems make it easier for infections to take hold. Moreover, children tend to contract upper respiratory tract infections more frequently due to their school and play environments, which can trigger sinus inflammation.
Common Causes and Triggers
- Viral Infections – Most cases begin with a cold or flu
- Bacterial Infections – Develop if a viral infection lingers or worsens
- Allergies – Dust, pollen, pet dander, and molds cause mucosal swelling
- Nasal structural issues – Deviated septum or narrow nasal passages
- Enlarged adenoids – Block sinus drainage, especially in young children
- Pollution and second-hand smoke – Irritate the nasal lining
- Seasonal changes – Especially during monsoon and winter, when moisture levels increase and respiratory viruses become more active
- Poor hygiene or contaminated water – Can introduce harmful pathogens into the nasal system
Symptoms to Watch Out For
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Post-nasal drip
- A cough that worsens at night
- Facial pain or pressure (especially around the eyes, forehead)
- Fever
- Bad breath
- Fatigue or irritability
- Reduced sense of smell
In children, symptoms may present as a chronic cold, frequent nighttime cough, or irritability rather than facial pain.
Diagnosis: How We Evaluate Sinusitis in Children
At Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Dr. Venu Gopal Reddy performs:
- Physical examination – Checking for facial tenderness, nasal inflammation, and discharge
- Nasal endoscopy – A slim camera to visualize the nasal and sinus passages
- Imaging tests (if required) – X-rays or CT scans in chronic or recurrent cases
- Allergy testing – To rule out or confirm allergen triggers
- Review of medical history – To assess recurrence or chronicity
Stages of the Condition
- Early (Viral) – Presents like a common cold
- Persistent – Nasal discharge and cough beyond 10 days
- Complicated – Bacterial infection, facial pain, swelling, or worsening fever
- Chronic – Long-standing sinus blockage with symptoms lasting months
Treatment Options:
Mild/Acute Cases (Viral)
- Adequate rest and hydration
- Saline nasal sprays or rinses
- Warm steam inhalation
- Over-the-counter medications to relieve congestion and fever
- Mucus-thinning agents (under doctor’s advice)
Bacterial Infections
- Antibiotics for 10–14 days (as prescribed by the doctor
- Nasal corticosteroids to reduce swelling
- Antihistamines if allergy is a contributing factor
Chronic or Recurrent Sinusitis
- Long-term nasal sprays or allergy management
- Balloon sinuplasty (minimally invasive) for widening sinus passages
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
- Removes blockages, corrects drainage
- Performed by experts like Dr. Reddy with advanced tools for minimal discomfort
When to Consider Surgery
Surgical intervention may be considered if:
- Medical treatment fails to resolve symptoms
- There is ongoing breathing difficulty or facial pain
- Sinusitis is affecting the child’s hearing or learning
- A CT scan shows structural abnormalities obstructing drainage
- Enlarged adenoids are also present
Prevention and Long-Term Hygiene: Teach children proper handwashing
- Hydration: Keeps mucus thin and flowing
- Use clean drinking water: Filtered or boiled
- Avoid exposure: To allergens, cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, or air pollution
- Manage allergies: Through medications or environmental control
- Good air circulation: Keep rooms ventilated and dust-free
- Nutrient-rich diet: To strengthen immunity
- Timely treatment for colds to prevent secondary sinus involvement
ENT Excellence at Malla Reddy Narayana Hospital
Our pediatric ENT department is equipped to handle the most complex sinus conditions in children with minimal discomfort. Dr. P Venu Gopal Reddy, with his Fellowship in Skull Base Surgery and 13+ years of surgical and clinical experience, offers personalized care, starting from accurate diagnosis to safe, child-friendly surgical management when necessary. Each patient’s treatment plan is designed with empathy, and parents are educated thoroughly about what their child is going through and how to ensure their comfort and recovery.
Sinusitis in children is often misunderstood as a routine cold or allergy issue. However, if left untreated or ignored, it can become chronic and negatively impact a child’s sleep, learning, and growth. Fortunately, with timely diagnosis, structured treatment, and experienced hands like those of Dr. P Venu Gopal Reddy at Malla Reddy Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, children can overcome sinus problems and lead active, healthy lives.