Sinus Infections in Children

Adults are not the only ones that can suffer from a sinus infection; children can suffer from them, as well. A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, occurs when the nasal passages and sinuses become inflamed. The sinuses are equipped to combat bacteria and viruses. Sometimes, the sinuses allow bacteria that are inside the nasal passages to enter the sinuses. When bacteria enters and sticks to the lining of the cells, a sinus infection can occur.

Symptoms of a Sinus Infection in Children

When your child has a sinus infection, various symptoms can be present. One symptom is the presence of a cold that lasts more than 10 to 14 days. Your child may have a stuffy nose, a low-grade fever and a headache. He or she might feel grouchy or tired. When the child blows his or her nose, a yellow-green discharge will be present. Your child may feel nauseous because of post-nasal drip. This same post-nasal drip may cause your child to have bad breath as well. All of these symptoms are signs that your child is suffering from a sinus infection.Medical Treatment

If your child has a sinus infection, it's important that he or she is seen by a doctor. Sinus infections, if left untreated, can progress to more serious medical conditions. When you take your child to the doctor's office, the doctor will conduct a physical examination and review your child's medical history. The examination will determine whether your child actually has a sinus infection and not a cold or upper respiratory infection. If the doctor determines that your child suffers from a sinus infection, he or she will most likely prescribe an antibiotic.Home Remedies

Although it's important for your child to see a doctor if he or she has a sinus infection, you can use home remedies to help your child alleviate sinus infection symptoms as well. For example, flushing the nasal passages with a saline spray is one way to help with congestion. Whether concocting your own mixture of table salt and warm water or purchasing an over-the-counter saline nose spray, this treatment is an effective method. Another home remedy to use for your child is the inhalation of steam. Using a steam humidifier or having your child take a warm shower can help clear the nasal passages as well. Children should also drink water and hot tea, as this keeps them hydrated and allows sinuses to drain.Ways to Prevent a Sinus Infection

If your child is prone to sinus infections, there are several ways to prevent them. For example, make sure your child eats a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables. These types of foods strengthen the immune system and help ward off colds. Other ways to prevent a sinus infection include washing hands frequently, as this helps to kill germs that cause infection. If your child develops a cold despite these preventative measures, he or she should drink plenty of fluids, blow the nose gently and get sufficient rest.Frequent Sinus Infections

Some children suffer from frequent sinus infections. When your child has sinus infections on a regular basis, a doctor should examine the child for the presence of nasal polyps or allergies. Recurring sinus infections can also be a sign that your child has a deviated septum or other abnormalities within the sinuses that prevent them from draining properly. The doctor may even order a CT scan in order to determine whether there are abnormalities within the sinuses.