Chronic sinusitis is a common condition in which the cavities around nasal passages (sinuses) become inflamed and swollen for at least 12 weeks, despite treatment attempts. Chronic sinusitis can be brought on by an infection, by growths in the sinuses (nasal polyps) or by a deviated nasal septum. The condition most commonly affects young and middle-aged adults, but it also can affect children.
Signs and symptoms of chronic sinusitis must be present with the confirmation of nasal inflammation for a diagnosis. These are:
Other signs and symptoms can include:
Chronic sinusitis and acute sinusitis have similar signs and symptoms, but the acute sinusitis is a temporary infection of the sinuses that is often associated with a cold.
Chronic sinusitis complications include:
Your doctor will feel for tenderness in your nose and face and look inside your nose.
Other methods for diagnosing chronic sinusitis include: