Chronic Sinusitis




Normal
Abnormal
  • Chronic sinusitis has identical symptoms as Acute Sinusitis, other than the symptoms persist for more than 3 weeks, and do not improve with shorter courses of antibiotics. Chronic sinusitis usually represents a more severe infection, resistant infection, or an anatomical obstruction (that prevents the infection from clearing).

  • CAT scan is often performed to rule out an anatomical obstruction
  • An MRI may be performed if there is concern of a tumor

  • Medical:
    1. Antibiotics are administered for 21-28 days such as Augmentin, Biaxin, or Levaquin.
    2. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, may be considered in an attempt to decrease inflammation and allow better penetration in to the sinuses.
    3. Oral decongestants such as Pseudophed, and nasal sprays such as Afrin for the first 3 days may be helpful. After 3 days, a "rebound" may occur, and they decongestants may no longer be effective.
    4. Take a warm shower twice a day, and blow out the excessive mucous.
    5. Saline nasal sprays may be used multiple times during the day and loose nasal secretions.
  • Surgery:

- If an obstruction is present, or if the above measures fail, an Ear, Nose & Throat specialist is usually consulted. Surgical drainage of the sinus and correction of the anatomic drainage problems may be considered. Surgery can offer a permanent cure to those with recurrent chronic sinus infections.