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Chronic Sinusitis: When Should You See an ENT Specialist?

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Sinusitis is a common condition that affects millions worldwide. While most cases resolve on their own, some persist and become chronic. Chronic sinusitis can impact your quality of life, causing persistent nasal congestion, facial pain, and difficulty breathing.

If your symptoms last longer than 12 weeks despite treatment, it may be time to see an ENT specialist for expert care. This article explains chronic sinusitis, its causes, and when to seek professional help.

What Is Chronic Sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis, or chronic rhinosinusitis, is a long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for 12 weeks or more. Unlike acute sinusitis, which is usually caused by a viral infection, chronic sinusitis may be due to persistent inflammation, allergies, or structural issues in the nasal passages.

Common Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis

If you experience any of the following symptoms for over 12 weeks, you may have chronic sinusitis:

  • Nasal congestion or blockage
  • Thick nasal discharge (yellow or green)
  • Postnasal drip (mucus running down the throat)
  • Facial pain or pressure, especially around the nose, eyes, and forehead
  • Headache
  • Decreased or lost sense of smell
  • Bad breath
  • Ear pain or pressure
  • Fatigue

What Causes Chronic Sinusitis?

Several factors can contribute to chronic sinusitis, including:

  • Nasal polyps: Small growths in the nasal passages that block airflow
  • Allergies: Hay fever and other allergies can inflame the sinuses
  • Deviated nasal septum: A crooked septum can restrict sinus drainage
  • Respiratory infections: Frequent colds and infections can trigger long-term inflammation
  • Asthma: People with asthma are more prone to sinus inflammation
  • Fungal infections: Some cases of chronic sinusitis are caused by fungi rather than bacteria
  • Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV or chemotherapy can increase susceptibility

When Should You See an ENT Specialist?

Signs That Indicate You Need Specialist Care

You should consider seeing an ENT specialist if:

  • Your sinus symptoms last longer than 12 weeks despite treatment
  • Over-the-counter medications provide little or no relief
  • You experience frequent sinus infections (more than four per year)
  • You have severe facial pain, swelling, or vision changes
  • Your symptoms significantly impact your daily life

How an ENT Specialist Diagnoses Chronic Sinusitis

An ENT specialist may use the following methods to diagnose chronic sinusitis:

  • Nasal endoscopy: A small camera is inserted into the nasal passages to check for blockages
  • CT scan: Provides detailed images of the sinuses to detect inflammation or structural issues
  • Allergy testing: Identifies allergic triggers that may contribute to sinusitis
  • Mucus culture: Tests for bacterial or fungal infections

Treatment Options for Chronic Sinusitis

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your sinusitis. An ENT specialist will recommend the best approach for your condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Nasal sprays: Steroid sprays reduce inflammation
  • Saline irrigation: Rinsing the nasal passages with saline clears mucus and allergens
  • Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed
  • Allergy management: Avoiding allergens and taking antihistamines can help
  • Decongestants: Short-term use of nasal decongestants can relieve congestion

Surgical Options

If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary. The most common procedures include:

  • Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS): Minimally invasive surgery to remove blockages and improve sinus drainage
  • Balloon sinuplasty: A small balloon is inserted into the sinuses and inflated to open blocked passages
  • Polyp removal: If nasal polyps are present, they may need to be surgically removed

For more details on sinusitis treatments, visit our sinusitis service page.

Preventing Chronic Sinusitis

While not all cases can be prevented, these steps can reduce your risk:

  • Use a humidifier: Keeping indoor air moist prevents nasal dryness
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus
  • Manage allergies: Identify and avoid allergens that trigger sinus issues
  • Practice good hygiene: Washing hands frequently prevents infections
  • Avoid smoke and pollutants: Cigarette smoke and air pollution can irritate the sinuses

Chronic sinusitis can be frustrating and affect your daily life, but effective treatments are available. If your symptoms persist despite home remedies and medications, seeing an ENT specialist is the best step towards lasting relief.

For expert sinus care, visit our sinusitis service page or contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Colds usually resolve within 10 days, while chronic sinusitis lasts for 12 weeks or more. If symptoms persist, consult an ENT specialist.

In some cases, symptoms improve with home remedies, but chronic sinusitis often requires medical treatment to resolve completely.

Surgery is only recommended if other treatments fail. An ENT specialist will determine the best course of action based on your condition.

Yes, allergies can contribute to chronic sinusitis by causing prolonged inflammation in the nasal passages.

You can schedule a consultation through our contact page.