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Sinusitis
Sinusitis is when the mucous membrane of the sinuses (bony cavities leading from the nose) become inflamed.
Symptoms
- Persistent pain in the front of the head or cheeks made worse by stooping, lying down, coughing or pressure changes during flying or diving
- Discharge from the nose (may be streaked with blood) and continues to be green and yellow more than ten days after a cold
- Blocked nose on the affected side
- Heaviness and watering of eyes
- Redness or swelling of the face over the affected sinuses
- Soreness when the bone over the affected sinus is pressed
- Painful teeth
Treatment in the home
- Rest if you have a high temperature and feel ill
- Take painkillers in recommended doses. Never give children under 12 aspirin.
Age 1-4
| One teaspoon of paracetamol mixture once every four hours up to four times in a 24 hour period
| Age 5-7
| Two teaspoons of paracetamol mixture once every four hours up to four times in a 24 hour period
| Age 8-12
| One paracetamol tablet once every four hours up to four times in a 24 hour period
| Age 12+
| Two tablets of soluble aspirin or paracetamol once every four hours up to four times in a 24 hour period
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- Steam inhalation may help especially if you add some crystals of menthol or eucalyptus or vapour rub. Add a teaspoon of vapour rub (or one or two crystals of menthol/eucalyptus) to a pint of steaming water in a bowl. Trap the steam with a towel over the patient’s head and the bowl. Inhale for ten minutes 3 times a day
- Decongestants from the chemist may be helpful
When to go to the doctor’s
- If treatment in the home has been tried for 48 hours and you are still feverish and in pain
- If there is swelling round the eyes or on the forehead
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