Chronic sinusitis
Overview
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 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.
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 computed tomography scan—CT)
In some cases, endoscopic sinus surgery, can provide lasting results when other treatments do not provide significant relief.
Talk to your doctor or book an appointment with an ENT specialist. At SIU Medicine we're here to help you find answers, breathe easier, and improve your quality of life.
