Chronic sinusitis is a condition in which the lining of the sinuses is swollen and inflamed for 12 weeks or longer, leading to ongoing symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pressure, thick nasal drainage, decreased sense of smell and taste, and fatigue. Some people develop nasal polyps, which are soft, noncancerous growths inside the nose or sinuses that can further block airflow and drainage. Chronic sinusitis can be caused by a combination of factors, including allergies, infections, nasal structure abnormalities, and immune system mediated inflammation. People with nasal polyps often have more severe congestion and loss of smell.
To evaluate chronic sinusitis, your care team will review your symptoms and medical history and perform an exam of your nose and sinuses. Testing may include allergy testing (skin or blood tests) to look for triggers that may be worsening inflammation, as well as imaging such as a CT scan to see detailed pictures of the sinuses. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms as well as whether polyps are present or not. Treatment may include saline rinses, nasal steroids, oral medications, and treatment of underlying allergies. In cases with nasal polyps, targeted injectable medications (biologics) may be used to decrease polyp size and improve smell. We also often work in concert with Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) physicians, who may recommend sinus surgery to improve sinus drainage and breathing when symptoms do not respond to medical therapy.
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