What Are Sinuses?
Sinuses are air-filled cavities in your skull that produce mucus to keep your nasal passages moist and trap particles. When the tissue lining these cavities becomes inflamed, swollen, or infected, mucus cannot drain properly. This causes pressure, pain, and the classic symptoms of sinusitis.
Most people think sinusitis is just a stuffy nose. But chronic sinusitis affects breathing, sleep, energy levels, and even mood. It can trigger asthma attacks and worsen sleep apnea. At Respire, we look at the whole picture.
Types of Sinusitis
Acute Sinusitis
Less than 4 weeks
Usually follows a cold or upper respiratory infection
Subacute Sinusitis
4-12 weeks
Symptoms that persist beyond a typical cold
Chronic Sinusitis
More than 12 weeks
Long-term inflammation requiring specialized care
Recurrent Sinusitis
4+ episodes per year
Repeated acute episodes with symptom-free intervals
Your Assessment Includes
- Detailed history of symptoms, triggers, and previous treatments
- Nasal endoscopy to visualize sinus openings and polyps
- CT scan of sinuses if chronic or recurrent
- Allergy testing to identify underlying triggers
- Assessment for asthma and sleep connections
Initial Treatment (Medical)
Saline Irrigation
Daily nasal rinses to clear mucus and reduce inflammation
Nasal Steroids
Reduce swelling and open sinus passages
Antihistamines
Control allergic triggers contributing to sinusitis
Antibiotics
When bacterial infection is confirmed, not routinely
Surgical Treatment (If Medical Fails)
When medical management does not provide adequate relief, Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure uses an endoscope to open blocked sinus passages and remove polyps or diseased tissue.
FESS Success Rates
- 85-90% of patients report significant improvement
- Outpatient procedure, 30-45 minutes
- Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks