A Guide to Chronic Sinusitis

Cold & Flu Center

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the air-filled spaces (sinuses) behind the forehead, cheeks, and eyes. Allergies and infections are the most common causes. When sinusitis keeps coming back or continues for a long period of time, it is considered chronic.

Causes of chronic sinusitis includeA deviated nasal septum or other blockage of the nose, which can trap fluid in a sinus. Dental infections such as a tooth abscess, which may spread into a sinus. An allergy to the Aspergillus fungus, which appears to cause a form of chronic sinusitis that's particularly difficult to treat.

Symptoms

Symptoms may last for three months or more. They include headache, facial pain around the eyes or in the forehead or cheeks, pain in the roof of the mouth or teeth, nasal drainage (yellow or yellow-green and thick), and cough.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to cure the infection and make the symptoms go away. A three- to four-week course of antibiotics may be given if bacteria caused the infection. Oral decongestants are sometimes used, as are nasal sprays (topical steroids) that may help relieve allergy-related chronic sinusitis. Over-the-counter painkillers can control pain.
For some, surgery to clean and drain the sinuses may be needed. Surgical repair of a deviated septum or nasal obstruction may prevent chronic sinusitis from recurring.
PreventionUsing decongestants when you have an upper respiratory infection may reduce your risk of developing sinusitis. However, decongestant nasal sprays should only be used for short periods of time because they can make congestion worse.