Sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones of your face. The lining of the sinuses normally makes small amounts of mucus. Inflammation in the sinuses leads to swelling and extra mucus. Symptoms of sinusitis, also called rhinosinusitis, include:
- Stuffy nose
- Yellow, green, or brown mucus that drains from the nose or down the back of the throat
- Pain, pressure, or feeling “fullness” in the face
- Decreased sense of smell
Acute sinusitis is the more common type, lasts less than 4 weeks, and usually happens after infection with a cold virus.
Chronic sinusitis lasts longer, typically more than 3 months. Recurrent sinusitis is when 3 or more acute sinus infections occur within a year.
Conditions related to severe, chronic, or recurrent sinusitis include:
- Allergic rhinitis
- Irritant exposure, such as tobacco smoke
- Immune system disorders
- Asthma
- Aspirin intolerance
- Nasal polyps
- Fungal allergy
Allergy/Immunology specialists have training in diagnosing and treating these conditions. In addition to antibiotics for infections, treatments for allergies, immune system disorders, nasal polyps, or aspirin intolerance can help you find relief.
For more information: https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/sinusitis
