Acute & Chronic Sinusitis

The sinus is composed of four pairs of cavities in the skull, connecting to your nose through small, nasal passages. Air passes through them, and the mucus produced in them eventually flow down and drain through your nose. Sinusitis, or sinus infection, occurs when there is an inflammation of these nasal passages, causing fluid build up and become trapped in the sinuses with no way of draining out the nose. This inflammation can happen from allergies, colds, or even abnormalities in the nasal structure, such as nasal polyps. As a result, the initial virus or bacteria can get trapped within the sinuses, allowing them to further grow and lead to infection.

Acute Sinusitis

This is a short-term inflammation of the sinuses, typically lasting less than four weeks. Acute sinusitis is often caused by viral infections, such as the common cold, or sometimes by bacterial infections. Symptoms can include facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, discolored nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, fever, and headache.

Chronic Sinusitis

This form of sinusitis lasts for 12 weeks or longer, despite attempts at treatment. Chronic sinusitis can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections, persistent allergies, nasal polyps, or structural abnormalities in the sinuses or nasal passages. Symptoms are similar to acute sinusitis but are often less severe and more persistent.

In the case of chronic sinusitis, symptoms may be less severe but persist for 12 weeks or longer despite attempts at treatment. It's important to consult an experienced ear, nose, and throat specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment if you're experiencing symptoms that could be sinusitis, as untreated sinus infections can lead to complications or worsen the condition.

Symptoms

Symptoms of sinusitis can vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition, but generally include:

• Nasal congestion or stuffiness

• Thick, discolored nasal discharge (yellow, green, or brown)

• Postnasal drip, which can cause a sore throat or cough

• Facial pain or pressure, particularly around the forehead, cheeks, nose, and eyes

• Reduced sense of smell or taste

• Headache, often worse when bending forward

• Ear pain or pressure

• Toothache or pain in the upper jaw

• Fatigue or general feeling of malaise

• Fever (more common in acute sinusitis)

Causes

Sinusitis occurs when the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the facial bones surrounding the nasal passages, become inflamed or blocked. This can be due to various factors that disrupt the normal function of the sinuses or lead to the buildup of fluid, creating an environment for pathogens to grow. Some common causes of sinusitis include:

• Viral infections - The most common cause of sinusitis is a viral infection, such as the common cold. The inflammation caused by the virus can block the sinus openings, leading to fluid buildup and sinusitis.

• Bacterial infections - Less commonly, sinusitis can be caused by bacterial infections. Bacteria can multiply in the trapped mucus, leading to acute or chronic sinusitis.

• Fungal infections - Although rare, certain types of fungi can cause sinusitis, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or chronic sinus problems.

• Allergies - Allergic reactions, such as those caused by pollen, dust, or pet dander, can cause inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to sinusitis.

• Nasal polyps - Small, noncancerous growths in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses can obstruct the normal flow of mucus, resulting in sinusitis.

• Deviated nasal septum - An abnormality in the cartilage and bone that separate the two sides of the nasal cavity can obstruct sinus openings, leading to sinusitis.

• Immune system disorders - People with weakened immune systems or certain immune system disorders are more susceptible to developing sinusitis.

• Environmental factors - Exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, or chemicals, can cause inflammation in the sinuses and lead to sinusitis.

It's important to identify the underlying cause of sinusitis to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent the condition from becoming chronic or recurring.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are suffering from sinusitis, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified and fellowship trained in rhinology, our physician at Sensa Health has extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of nose conditions. Call our office at 213-267-2256 to schedule an appointment today.