Chronic Sinusitis: Symptoms, Causes and When to See an ENT
Chronic sinusitis affects the quality of life of millions. Learn to identify symptoms and when to seek professional help.
Chronic sinusitis is prolonged inflammation of the paranasal sinuses lasting more than 12 weeks. Unlike acute sinusitis, which improves with treatment in a few weeks, chronic requires specialized evaluation and management.
What are paranasal sinuses?
Paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities located around the nose and eyes. Their function is to:
- Filter and humidify the air we breathe
- Lighten the weight of the skull
- Improve voice resonance
- Protect facial structures
Symptoms of chronic sinusitis
Main symptoms
- Persistent nasal congestion: Constant feeling of blocked nose
- Nasal discharge: Thick yellow or green mucus
- Facial pain: Pressure in cheeks, forehead or between eyes
- Reduced smell: Partial or total loss of sense of smell
Secondary symptoms
- Headache
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Fatigue
- Night-time cough
- Dental pain
- Post-nasal drip
Common causes
Anatomical factors
- Deviated nasal septum
- Nasal polyps
- Turbinate hypertrophy
- Narrowing of sinus ducts
Environmental factors
- Allergies (allergic rhinitis)
- Pollutant exposure
- Smoking
- Dry climate
Medical factors
- Asthma
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Immunodeficiencies
- Fungal infections
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of chronic sinusitis includes:
- Detailed medical history: Duration and type of symptoms
- Physical examination: Nose and throat exam
- Nasal endoscopy: Direct visualization of sinuses with camera
- Sinus CT scan: Images to assess extent
- Allergy tests: If allergic component suspected
Treatment
Medical treatment
- Nasal corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation
- Saline nasal irrigation: Mechanical cleaning
- Antibiotics: If bacterial infection present
- Antihistamines: If allergic component
Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS)
When medical treatment isn't enough, endoscopic surgery is the solution. Advantages: Minimally invasive: No external incisions Quick recovery: Home same day Precision: Direct visualization with endoscope Lasting results: Significant quality of life improvement
When to see an ENT?
You should consult if you have:
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 months
- Recurrent sinusitis (3+ episodes per year)
- Lack of response to medical treatment
- Loss of smell
- Intense facial pain
- Vision affected
Prevention
To prevent chronic sinusitis:
- Maintain good nasal hygiene with regular irrigation
- Control allergies properly
- Avoid tobacco and pollutants
- Stay well hydrated
- Treat respiratory infections promptly
Conclusion
Chronic sinusitis is not something you have to live with. With accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, you can recover your quality of life and breathe freely again. If you've had congestion, facial pain or loss of smell for months, it's time for a specialized ENT evaluation.
Questions or need a consultation?
I'll be happy to help you resolve your doubts or schedule an appointment.