Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic Sinusitis refers to a sinus infection that has lasted 12 weeks or more. This is the most common problem we see.

CHRONIC SINUSITIS

What Is Chronic Sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses, typically persisting for 12 weeks or more, despite attempts at treatment. It affects millions of people each year and is one of the most common reasons patients seek help from an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Unlike acute sinus infections, chronic sinusitis doesn’t always resolve with antibiotics alone and may require a more comprehensive approach.

Common Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis

If you’ve been experiencing persistent nasal congestion or sinus pressure that won’t go away, you might be dealing with chronic sinusitis. Here are the most common signs and symptoms:

Persistent Symptoms May Include:

Facial congestion or fullness, especially around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks
Thick or discolored nasal discharge or postnasal drip
Facial pain or headaches, especially when bending over or lying down
Reduced or complete loss of smell (anosmia)
Chronic fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell
Cough, often worse at night, triggered by post nasal drainage
Bad breath (halitosis) that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene
Tooth pain, especially in the upper back teeth due to maxillary sinus pressure

How Is Chronic Sinusitis Diagnosed?

A proper diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Your ENT may use a combination of tools to confirm chronic sinusitis and rule out other causes.

Diagnostic Methods May Include:

Physical exam – Assessing nasal passages and sinuses
CT scan of the sinuses – Provides detailed images of the sinus cavities
Nasal endoscopy – A small camera is used to view inside your nasal passages
Allergy testing – To identify allergic triggers that may worsen symptoms
Sinus cultures – To detect bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
Immune system evaluation – Especially if infections are frequent or persistent

CHRONIC SINUSITIS

Treatment Options

The primary goal of treatment is to relieve your symptoms, restore sinus drainage, and prevent recurrence.

Treatment May Include:

Nasal corticosteroids – To reduce inflammation
Saline rinses – To clear nasal passages
Antibiotics or antifungals – If an infection is identified
Allergy management – Including medications or immunotherapy
Surgery – Such as endoscopic sinus surgery to open blocked sinus pathways

CHRONIC SINUSITIS

What Causes Chronic Sinusitis?

Several factors can contribute to ongoing sinus inflammation and blockage.

Common Causes and Risk Factors:

Allergies – Including seasonal pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander
Structural issues – Such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps that block drainage
Recurring infections – Viral, bacterial, or fungal
Dental infections – Can spread to the sinuses, particularly the upper molars
Underlying medical conditions – Including asthma and cystic fibrosis
Smoking – Active or secondhand smoke irritates nasal passages and slows healing

Let’s get you back to breathing well again.

Don’t let chronic sinus and nasal infections take control of your life. Book your consultation today for lasting relief.

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Meet the team

Atkins Sinus Expert Care is committed to providing personalized care, cutting-edge equipment, and a level of experience you won't find elsewhere.

James Atkins, MD

Sinus Specialist, Founder of Atkins Expert Sinus Care
James M. Ferris, PA

Physician Assistant

Your first visit with us

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Visit our office

Dr. Atkins will review your symptoms at your visit and decide what diagnostic tests are needed to get to the root of your problem.
Care plan

Once the diagnostic tests are done, Dr. Atkins will review them and make a plan of care for you. At that time, he will discuss whether you are a candidate for one of our procedures.

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