Understanding chronic sinus issues—and when to seek help

If you’ve had a stuffy nose that just won’t go away or pressure in your face that lingers for weeks, you’re not alone. Chronic nasal and sinus problems are common and treatable. Knowing the signs and when to get help can make a big difference in your daily comfort and overall health.

What are chronic sinus issues?

Most of us have had a sinus infection at some point. These infections—called sinusitis—happen when the sinuses (the air-filled spaces behind your nose and cheeks) become inflamed or blocked. Mucus builds up, causing pressure, pain, drainage and that stuffy feeling. These infections are usually self-limited or resolve with medications in a short time frame.

Chronic sinusitis is different from a standard sinus infection. It’s defined as nasal and sinus inflammation that lasts 12 weeks or longer, even with treatment. For some people, symptoms can last months or even years.

Common symptoms

Chronic sinusitis may not feel as intense as an acute infection, but the long-term effects can take a toll. You may experience:

• Nasal congestion or stuffiness that won’t go away
• Postnasal drip (mucus that drips down your throat) or a runny nose
• Facial pain or pressure—especially around the eyes, forehead or cheeks
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Headaches or fatigue

These symptoms can come and go—or linger constantly. Either way, they can interfere with your sleep, your energy and your quality of life.

What causes chronic sinus issues?

There’s no single cause of chronic sinusitis. In many cases, it is not just a prolonged infection, but rather a combination of several factors:

• Allergies (especially seasonal or indoor allergens)
• Genetics (an individual’s characteristics)
• Polyps (noncancerous growths or swellings in the nose or sinuses)
• Persistent infections
• A deviated septum (crooked cartilage inside the nose)
• Immune system issues

Every person is different. That’s why it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis and a care plan that fits your needs.

When to talk to a doctor

If you’ve had nasal or sinus symptoms that last more than a few weeks—or if you feel like you’re always congested—it’s time to seek care. You don’t have to live with chronic discomfort or a hindrance to your quality of life.

Talk to your primary care doctor first, as not all facial pressure is sinusitis. They may refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist—also known as an otolaryngologist—if more specialized care is needed. 

At SIU Medicine, our ENT team works closely with primary care providers across the region to offer advanced, cutting-edge, academic-based care close to home. We focus on helping you feel better, breathe easier and get back to the life you enjoy.

Treatment options

Chronic sinusitis is often managed in multiple ways. Treatment and further workup may include:

• Nasal sprays or rinses
• Prescription medications (like appropriate and careful selection of antibiotics or steroids)
• Allergy testing and management
• Nasal endoscopy (use of a very small camera to see inside the nose and sinus areas)
• Imaging to look at your sinuses more closely (such as a computed tomography scan—CT)

In some cases, endoscopic sinus surgery, can provide lasting results when other treatments do not provide significant relief.

You don’t have to tough it out

Chronic sinus issues are more than just a nuisance. They can affect your sleep, your energy, your focus and your overall well-being. If you're living with symptoms that just won’t go away, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor or book an appointment with an ENT specialist today.