Inflammation of your nasal sinuses.
Sinusitis, commonly known as a sinus infection, is a widespread condition affecting millions each year, causing discomfort and impacting quality of life. It occurs when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes inflamed or swollen, often leading to pain, pressure, and difficulty breathing. At St. Luke's University Health Network, our dedicated team of primary care physicians (PCP) and Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists provide expert, compassionate care for both acute and chronic sinusitis, helping patients find lasting relief and improved well-being. Our commitment to patient-centered care means you receive personalized attention from expert ENT specialists right in your community.
Understanding sinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes. This inflammation can lead to a buildup of mucus, creating an ideal environment for bacteria, viruses, or fungi to grow, resulting in an infection. Sinusitis can be classified into several types:
- Acute sinusitis: A sudden onset of cold-like symptoms such as facial pain, nasal congestion, and discharge, lasting less than four weeks.
- Recurrent acute sinusitis: Four or more episodes of acute sinusitis occur within one year.
- Subacute sinusitis: Symptoms persist for four to twelve weeks.
- Chronic sinusitis: Symptoms last for twelve weeks or longer, often despite treatment attempts.
Symptoms of sinusitis
Sinusitis symptoms can vary based on the type and severity of the infection but commonly include facial pain or pressure around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks that may worsen when bending forward, nasal congestion that makes breathing difficult, and thick, discolored nasal discharge or post‑nasal drip. Many people also experience reduced sense of smell or taste, headaches centered in the forehead or behind the eyes, sore throat or cough from throat irritation, fatigue, and, in acute cases, fever. Ear pressure or pain and upper dental pain—especially with maxillary sinus involvement—may also occur.
Causes of sinusitis
Sinusitis often develops after a viral illness such as the common cold, which causes inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages and sinuses. Other contributing causes and risk factors include allergies that block sinus drainage, nasal polyps or a deviated septum that obstructs airflow, respiratory infections like colds or the flu, and chronic conditions such as asthma. A weakened immune system can increase susceptibility to sinus infections, while exposure to environmental irritants like cigarette smoke or pollution can further inflame the sinuses. Less commonly, fungal infections may cause severe sinusitis, particularly in individuals with compromised immunity.
Treatment and surgical options for sinusitis
St. Luke’s offers comprehensive, personalized treatment options for sinusitis designed to relieve symptoms, prevent recurrence, and improve long‑term sinus health. Many patients, particularly those with acute sinusitis, respond well to conservative treatments such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, nasal corticosteroid sprays, decongestants, saline nasal irrigation, pain relievers, and allergy management when appropriate. For chronic or recurrent sinusitis that does not improve with medical therapy, ENT specialists may recommend advanced interventions, including minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty, endoscopic sinus surgery to remove obstructions and enhance drainage, or corrective procedures such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction to improve airflow and sinus function.
Frequently asked questions about sinusitis
Yes, allergies can significantly contribute to sinusitis. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages, leading to blocked sinus openings and impaired drainage, which creates an environment conducive to sinus infections.
Untreated sinusitis, especially chronic or severe cases, can lead to complications such as orbital cellulitis (infection spreading to the eye socket), meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord lining), or osteomyelitis (bone infection). It can also severely impact quality of life due to persistent pain, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.
Balloon sinuplasty is a highly effective and durable treatment for many patients with chronic sinusitis, offering long-term relief by restoring natural sinus drainage. While it's not always a permanent cure for everyone, some individuals may require additional treatments or procedures over time.
Preventing recurrent sinus infections often involves managing underlying causes. Strategies include avoiding allergy triggers, using saline nasal rinses regularly, managing asthma effectively, avoiding irritants like smoke, and promptly treating colds and flu. In some cases, an ENT specialist may recommend prophylactic treatments or surgical interventions to address structural issues.
While diet isn't a direct cause or cure for sinusitis, certain dietary choices can influence inflammation and mucus production. Some people find that reducing dairy, sugar, and processed foods, and increasing intake of anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids), can help manage symptoms. Staying well-hydrated is also crucial for thinning mucus.
