I Have Chronic Sinusitis: Why?

It’s one thing to deal with an acute sinus infection that usually resolves within 7-10 days. It’s another thing entirely to deal with chronic sinusitis when the same infection lasts for 12 weeks or longer. The bothersome symptoms can make going about your daily life challenging and even interfere with your sleep.

At her office in Valencia, California, Dr. Maricar Cutillar-Garcia diagnoses and treats all types of sinusitis to help you find lasting relief. 

If you’re concerned about your lingering sinus symptoms, read on to learn about potential causes and effective solutions.

Chronic sinusitis symptoms

Chronic sinusitis affects people differently. However, common symptoms include thick nasal discharge, a stuffy nose, facial or jaw pain, and a reduced sense of smell. If you have at least two of these symptoms for at least three months, you meet the criteria for chronic sinusitis. 

Chronic sinusitis can also cause:

• Bad breath
• Cough or sore throat
• Headaches
• Ear pain
• Tiredness and fatigue

Exhaustion can stem from your immune system as it fights off the infection. Tiredness and fatigue can also result from difficulty sleeping when your nose is clogged or dripping. 

Why sinusitis becomes chronic

Most anyone can develop chronic sinusitis. However, your risk is heightened if you have cystic fibrosis (CF), a dental infection, or a fungal infection. 

The thick mucus of CF can clog your sinuses, making a prime setup for bacterial overgrowth. Left untreated, dental and fungal infections in your mouth can cause harmful bacteria to spread to your sinuses. 

Seasonal allergies and frequent exposure to pollutants, like cigarette smoke or mold, also fuel chronic sinus infections. Conditions that make sinus issues worse include: 

• Colds 
• Nasal polyps 
• Deviated septum 
• Nasal tumors 

What to do about chronic sinusitis

Left untreated, chronic sinusitis can lead to vision problems and brain or spinal cord infections. While these complications are rare, they’re serious enough to warrant treatment before your symptoms worsen or go on even longer.

When home care measures, such as rest, warm compresses, and allergy medication, don’t reduce your symptoms within 10 days, you may need antibiotics. The same applies if Dr. Cutillar-Garcia suspects that your sinus symptoms stem from a bacterial infection. 

Other treatments may include:

• Intranasal steroid spray for 3-5 days
• Steam vapors
• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Oral or inhaled steroids
• Surgery for especially severe symptoms

Dr. Cutillar-Garcia can also discuss preventive measures, such as better controlling your allergies, improving your hygiene practices, and using a well-maintained (regularly cleaned) humidifier. Distancing yourself from people who have colds may help protect your sinuses from infection, too.

To get expert care for your chronic sinusitis symptoms, call our office or book an appointment with Dr. Cutillar-Garcia through our website today.