Sinusitis

Sinusitis

When your sinuses are inflamed, blocked, or filled with fluid, it can lead to discomfort and symptoms similar to a cold or an allergy.


Treatments aim to improve symptoms of sinusitis by reducing inflammation and removing infection. 

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Types of Sinusitis

Sinusitis has different names depending on the length of symptoms.


Acute Sinusitis


This is when you experience a sudden onset of symptoms that don’t go away after 10 days. This type of sinusitis usually responds well to antibiotics. Repeated episodes of acute sinusitis are termed recurrent acute sinusitis.


Chronic Sinusitis


The symptoms or chronic sinusitis include nasal congestion, drainage, facial pain or pressure, and a loss of smell for more than 12 weeks consecutively.

Treatment for Sinusitis

A sinus infection (or sinusitis) is an inflammation or swelling of the sinus tissues, which keep the nose clean and free of bacteria. While anyone can have sinusitis, people with nasal allergies, nasal polyps, or asthma are more susceptible. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may range from allergy medication to antibiotics to surgery.

FAQs about Sinusitis

  • What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

    The main symptoms of sinusitis include:

    • Stuffy nose or congestion
    • Facial pain and pressure
    • Smell and taste loss
    • Bad smell
    • Drainage out of the front or back of the nose 

  • How is sinusitis diagnosed?

    Sinusitis is evaluated using a combination of symptoms and tests. Some useful exams include:

  • How common is sinusitis?

    Almost 30 million people in the United States suffer from sinusitis. That is about 12% of the population. 

  • What is the best sinusitis treatment?

    The best treatment for sinusitis often depends on the nature and severity of the condition. For acute sinusitis, which is typically caused by a viral infection, management usually involves supportive care such as hydration, decongestants, nasal saline irrigation, and pain relievers. If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen, suggesting a possible bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.


    In cases of chronic sinusitis, where symptoms last for more than 12 weeks or recur frequently, treatment can be more complex. If chronic sinusitis is refractory to medical treatments, including extended courses of antibiotics, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and sinus rinses, sinus surgery might be considered. Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a common procedure aimed at removing blockages and improving sinus drainage. Balloon sinuplasty is a less invasive option that uses a balloon to widen the sinuses, facilitating drainage and providing relief from symptoms.

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