What is acute sinusitis? Symptoms explained as Queen Camilla pulls out of major event

The Queen has pulled out of attending to the funeral of the Duchess of Kent while “recovering from acute sinusitis”, Buckingham Palace has announced. A Palace spokesman said Camilla hoped to have recovered in time to attend events during US president Donald Trump’s state visit later this week. So what is sinusitis and how is it treated?

Sinusitis is swelling of the tissues in your sinuses, usually caused by an infection. Sinuses are hollow cavities behind the cheekbones and forehead. Symptoms include pain, swelling and tenderness around the cheeks, eyes or forehead, and a blocked or runny nose, and reduced sense of smell. It can also cause green or yellow mucus in the nose and a high temperature, headache, toothache, bad breath, a cough, and a feeling of pressure in the ears. Sinusitis is common after a cold or flu and usually clears up on its own, although symptoms can last for a few weeks.

The Queen's sinusitis was described as "acute" which means it is a short-term condition. Some people suffer from chronic sinusitis lasting for more than 12 weeks.

Sinusitis can usually be treated at home with rest and drinking plenty of fluids. Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can help to ease discomfort.

The NHS website advises that sufferers avoid things that may trigger allergies and do not smoke.

Cleaning the nose with a salt water solution can also help.

People who have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to do normal activities as advised to stay home and avoid contact with others.

Sinusitis is one of the growing list of conditions that pharmacists can provide quick advice for. The NHS advises people to see a pharmacist if they think they, or a child aged over 12, have sinusitis.

It says people should visit the GP if a child under 12 has symptoms, or if symptoms have not improved after three weeks at home or after seven days with treatment from a GP or pharmacist.

GPs and pharmacists can prescribe medicines such as steroid nasal sprays and drops to reduce swelling, or antihistamines if allergies are a factor.

In rare cases, patients may require antibiotics or referral to an ear, nose and throat specialist.