Fungal Sinusitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Mootha , ENT

---

Fungal sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses caused by fungi, affecting the respiratory system. It can be non-invasive or invasive, with symptoms like nasal congestion, facial pain, and thick discharge. Those with weakened immunity are at higher risk. Treatment varies from antifungal medications to surgical removal, depending on severity and type.

What Are the Symptoms and Warning Signs of Fungal Sinusitis?

Fungal sinusitis occurs when fungi infect the sinus cavities. While fungal spores are commonly present in the air we breathe, only certain individuals develop this condition, often due to weakened immunity or structural nasal issues.

Common Symptoms

• Nasal congestion or stuffiness
• Facial pain or pressure
• Thick, discoloured nasal discharge
• Loss or reduction in the sense of smell
• Headaches

Severe Symptoms

• Fever
• Swelling around the eyes or face
• Vision problems
• Confusion or neurological symptoms (in rare, advanced cases)

---

What Are the Different Types of Fungal Sinusitis?

Fungal sinusitis can be categorized into two main types based on the immune response and severity:

Non-Invasive Fungal Sinusitis

• Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis (AFRS): Often seen in people with allergies; involves a buildup of allergic mucin and fungal debris.
• Fungal Ball (Mycetoma): A clump of fungal material in a sinus cavity, typically affecting one sinus and not spreading to surrounding tissues.

Invasive Fungal Sinusitis

• Acute Invasive Fungal Sinusitis: A rapidly progressing infection, often life-threatening, usually seen in severely immunocompromised patients.
• Chronic Invasive Fungal Sinusitis: A slower-growing form that can invade nearby tissues, often in people with poorly controlled diabetes or moderate immune suppression.

---

What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Fungal Sinusitis?

Fungal sinusitis is caused by inhaling fungal spores, but certain conditions make people more vulnerable.

Causes

• Inhalation of fungal spores from air, soil, or decaying matter
• Fungal overgrowth due to disrupted sinus drainage

Risk Factors

• Weakened Immune System: Cancer patients, individuals with HIV/AIDS, or those on immunosuppressive medications
• Chronic Nasal or Sinus Issues: Deviated septum, nasal polyps, or past sinus surgeries
• Allergies or Asthma: Especially in cases of Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis
• Exposure to Dust or Moldy Environments

---

How Is Fungal Sinusitis Diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Doctors rely on a mix of examinations, imaging and lab tests.

Diagnostic Steps

• Clinical Evaluation: A detailed history and physical exam to assess symptoms and risk factors
• Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRIs to detect fungal growths and sinus abnormalities
• Lab Tests: Nasal discharge or tissue samples examined to confirm the fungal type through culture or biopsy

At Medicover, our ENT specialists use advanced imaging tools and in-house pathology services to ensure timely and precise diagnosis.

---

What Are the Treatment Options for Fungal Sinusitis?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fungal infection. A combination of medication, surgery, and supportive care is often required.

Medical Treatments

• Antifungal Medications: Prescribed based on the type of fungus. Common ones include: Amphotericin B, Voriconazole, Itraconazole

Surgical Options

• Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): A minimally invasive procedure to clear fungal buildup and improve sinus drainage

Managing Underlying Conditions

• Strengthening immune health
• Correcting anatomical blockages
• Monitoring for recurrence, especially in immunocompromised individuals

Our Medicover's ENT department provides individual treatment plans and post-operative care for better recovery outcomes.

---

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following, it's time to consult a specialist:

• Sinus symptoms lasting more than 10 days
• Severe facial pain or swelling
• Vision changes or mental confusion
• Recurring sinus infections despite treatment

High-risk groups, such as individuals with immune disorders, diabetes, or recent chemotherapy, should seek medical attention immediately.

---

What Is the Recovery Process After Fungal Sinusitis Treatment?

Recovery time varies based on infection severity and treatment type.

Recovery Timeline

• Medication only: May take a few weeks
• Post-surgery: Initial recovery in 1-2 weeks, full recovery in 4-6 weeks

Follow-Up Care

• Regular ENT consultations
• Repeat imaging (if needed)
• Antifungal therapy continuation (in chronic or invasive cases)

Lifestyle Tips

• Use saline nasal sprays or irrigation
• Avoid exposure to dust, mold, and pollution
• Eat a balanced diet to support immune function

Medicover's support team helps patients throughout their recovery with diet plans, medication guidance, and mental health support.

---

What Precautions Can Help Prevent Fungal Sinusitis?

While not all cases can be prevented, several measures can reduce your risk.

Prevention

• Use air purifiers in mold-prone areas
• Practice good nasal hygiene (e.g., saline rinses)
• Wear masks in dusty or polluted environments
• Manage chronic health conditions like diabetes and asthma

Complications (if untreated)

• Spread of infection to eyes or brain
• Orbital cellulitis
• Intracranial abscess
• Permanent loss of smell or vision

---

Our Experience Treating Fungal Sinusitis

At Medicover, we understand the serious impact fungal sinus infections can have on your health and quality of life. Our expert ENT surgeons, advanced imaging technology, and complete care plans ensure you receive the best possible treatment, from diagnosis to recovery.

Whether you're dealing with chronic nasal congestion or a complex fungal infection, we're here to help you breathe easier again.

---