In Guinea, a leading ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist has sounded the alarm over sinusitis, warning that while the illness is common, it can have serious—and sometimes lasting—consequences if left untreated.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Africaguinee.com, Professor Alpha Oumar Diallo, head of the otolaryngology and head and neck surgery department at the Ignace Deen National Hospital in Conakry, described sinusitis as a “neglected but potentially dangerous” condition.
Professor Diallo, who also lectures at Gamal Abdel Nasser University, explained that sinusitis is an inflammation—acute or chronic—of the sinus cavities in the face. These cavities include the maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses, which can become infected or inflamed due to various causes.
Contrary to popular belief, he stressed, sinusitis is not contagious. However, genetic factors such as inherited allergies can increase the risk, leading to chronic nasal inflammation that may spread to the sinuses.
In Guinea, environmental conditions make the population particularly vulnerable. “Air pollution, smoke from cooking with wood or coal, humidity, poor hygiene, and untreated dental caries are all aggravating factors,” Professor Diallo said. “These elements, which are common in daily life here, help bacteria enter the sinuses.”
The symptoms are often unmistakable: headaches, nasal obstruction, runny nose, fever, breathing difficulties, and chronic fatigue. In children, the illness can even affect concentration and school performance.
Professor Diallo highlighted that dental health is closely linked to sinus health, as the maxillary sinus lies directly above the dental arch. Cavities or other dental infections can trigger sinusitis.
He urged greater public awareness and timely medical intervention, noting that while the illness itself is not infectious, its impact can be debilitating if ignored.
With environmental and lifestyle factors combining to create ideal conditions for sinus infections, health professionals in Guinea are now calling for prevention campaigns and better access to ENT care, aiming to curb the toll of a disease that is both widespread and underestimated.
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