Frontal sinusitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation or infection in the frontal sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located in the forehead, behind the eyebrow region. It is a type of sinusitis that specifically affects the frontal sinuses.
Sinusitis occurs when the sinuses, which are normally lined with a mucous membrane, become blocked, often due to a viral or bacterial infection. In the case of frontal sinusitis, the frontal sinuses can become inflamed or infected, leading to various symptoms.
The most common symptoms of frontal sinusitis include frontal headache, pain or pressure in the forehead region, tenderness or swelling around the eyes, nasal congestion or stuffiness, postnasal drip, and sometimes fever. These symptoms can often be accompanied by fatigue, cough, and a reduced sense of smell.
Frontal sinusitis can be caused by a variety of factors, such as viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or structural abnormalities in the nasal passages that block the sinuses' drainage pathways. Diagnosis is typically made based on the patient's symptoms, a physical examination, and sometimes imaging studies, such as an X-ray or CT scan.
Treatment for frontal sinusitis often involves a combination of interventions aimed at relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. This can include over-the-counter pain relievers, decongestants, nasal saline rinses, and sometimes antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present. In severe cases or when conservative measures are not effective, surgical intervention may be necessary to clear the sinus passages and improve drainage.
Overall, frontal sinusitis is a condition characterized by inflammation or infection of the frontal sinuses, causing various symptoms in the forehead region, and requires appropriate medical management for resolution.
