Q: I am 24 years old. I have pain in my ears. Doctors say that tympanic membrane is stuck. I also have problem of sinusitis for the past six years along with throat problem and DNS. Audiometry test shows normal hearing power is there. What is the treatment for sinusitis? How can I cure my ear? There is no discharge.

A:Sinusitis is the inflammation of one or more paranasal sinuses and can be acute, chronic, or recurrent. Paranasal sinuses are spaces in the facial bones which into the nose via small openings called ostia. Secretions produced in the sinuses flow by ciliary action toward the ostia, through which drainage into the nasal cavity occurs. Normally, the flow of sinus secretions is always unidirectional (ie, toward the ostia), which prevents back contamination of the sinuses. Any obstruction of the outflow tract (allergy, viruses, chemical irritation) leads to stasis of secretions with negative pressure and finally infection by bacteria. Antimicrobial drugs are the mainstay of medical treatment and the choice of antibiotic depends upon whether the sinusitis is acute, chronic, or recurrent. Recurrent or persistent sinusitis and presence of complications may require surgery. Keep the nasal passage patent by use of decongestants, take steam inhalation, use antihistaminics to keep the nasal mucosa dry and an appropriate antibiotic. This should be done after consultation with an ENT doctor.