The runny nose. Infection of the paranasal sinuses.

Infection of the paranasal sinuses is an important although infrequent complication of the common cold. This article discusses the pathophysiology, etiology, clinical presentation, complications, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of these infections. Proper treatment with the appropriate antibiotic may help in avoiding irreversible mucosal damage, thus decreasing the incidence of chronic sinusitis.