Your child's sinuses are not fully developed until age 20. Unlike in adults, pediatric sinusitis is difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be subtle and the causes complex. Young children have immature immune systems and are more prone to infections of the nose, sinus, and ears, especially in the first several years of life. However, when your child remains ill beyond the usual week to ten days, a serious sinus infection is likely.
Most children respond very well to antibiotic therapy.
Nasal decongestants or topical nasal sprays may also be prescribed for short-term relief of stuffiness. If your child has acute sinusitis, symptoms should improve within the first few days. Even if your child improves dramatically within the first week of treatment, it is important that you continue therapy until all the antibiotics have been taken. If your child suffers from sinus symptoms that last for twelve weeks, two major symptoms or one major symptom and two minor symptoms, this is known as chronic sinusitis. The ENT may recommend surgical treatment of the sinuses.