How would radiographic films of air-filled sinuses appear?

Real-Life Challenge: Sinusitis

A 45-year-old man is experiencing a headache over both eyes on awakening. The patient says he also experiences pain above the eyes when bending over. Tenderness above the eyes in the frontal area of the forehead and also in both cheeks is noted on palpation. A thick greenish-yellow mucous drainage is present. Sinus radiographs show cloudiness in the region of the maxillary and frontal sinuses. Vital signs are temperature, 99.88° F; pulse, 90; respirations, 26; and blood pressure, 136/88. Mouth breathing is noted.

Questions:

1. Compare symptoms and signs of sinusitis and of upper respiratory tract infection (URI).

2. What are the causes of sinusitis?

3. Discuss the correlation between allergies and sinusitis.

4. What drug therapy might be prescribed for the treatment of sinusitis?

5. What is the principle behind the use of decongestants for sinusitis?

6. How would radiographic films of air-filled sinuses appear?