What is Chronic Sinus Infection?

Chronic sinus infection or chronic sinusitis is a persistent inflammation and infection of one or more of the sinuses that surround the face. People with chronic sinus infection experience symptoms like a sensation of pressure in the face, thick nasal discharge, and headaches. There are treatments available when it is evident that a patient has a case of chronic sinus infection, ranging from relatively conservative measures to surgery on the sinuses. Consulting a sinus specialist is often recommended to get the best quality of care.

Sinusitis can be divided into acute and chronic forms. Chronic sinus infection is any inflammation that lasts more than eight weeks or recurs more than four times in a single year. People can develop sinus infection for a wide variety of reasons, including allergies, anomalies in the structure of the sinuses, and occupational exposures. In all cases, the tissue inside the sinuses becomes irritated, mucus production increases, and the sinuses fill with fluid.

Discomfort is the hallmark of sinus infection. People may feel like their heads are heavier and fuller than usual, and they can experience pressure, a dull ache, or sharp pains as a result of their impacted sinuses. Headaches, nasal discharges, and teary eyes can also be experienced. Potential complications of sinus infection include the spread of infection to the brain or bone. In chronic sinus infection, the condition is persistent and ongoing, although it may vary in severity.

Basic treatments for sinus infection can include making lifestyle changes to avoid allergens, using steam treatments to try and clear the sinuses, and taking antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to treat the inflammation and infection. Pain management may also be offered to keep the patient feeling more comfortable. If the sinus infection persists, surgery to the sinuses may be recommended. Drainage can be improved in a surgical procedure, limiting the buildup of fluid in the sinuses, and doctors can also correct issues like deviated septum that may be contributing to the severity of a patient's sinus infection.

Working with a sinus specialist can provide access to the latest treatments, as well as treatment based on experience with a wide variety of patients who have a history of sinusitis and other sinus conditions. Patients may also be referred to allergy specialists, if allergies are believed to be the cause. When discussing treatment options, patients may find it helpful to ask about all the available choices, along with their risks and benefits. Doctors should also be asked about their goals with treatment and the success rates with various types of treatments in other patients.