Chronic sinusitis is a long-term inflammation of the sinuses, which are the hollow cavities around the nose and eyes. It occurs when the sinuses become swollen and blocked for an extended period, usually lasting more than 12 weeks, despite treatment attempts.
Symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:
Fatigue or sleep apnoea
Allergic reactions, like those caused by hay fever, are one of the most common triggers of chronic sinusitis. When your body reacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander or mould, it produces an immune response that causes inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses. This inflammation can lead to mucus buildup, congestion and sinus pressure.
People with seasonal or year-round allergies often experience chronic sinus issues because their nasal passages remain inflamed for extended periods. Allergies also increase mucus production, making it easier for the sinuses to become blocked, which can lead to infection.
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, and noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses due to chronic inflammation. These polyps can grow large enough to block the nasal passages and sinus openings, preventing proper drainage of mucus.
Polyps obstruct airflow and trap mucus, creating an environment where bacteria can grow, which can lead to frequent or persistent sinus infections. People with conditions like asthma, allergies or recurring sinus infections are more prone to developing nasal polyps.
The septum is the cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils. A deviated septum occurs when this dividing wall is off-centre or crooked, causing one side of the nasal cavity to be smaller than the other. This misalignment can make it difficult for air to flow freely and for mucus to drain properly from the sinuses.
A deviated septum can lead to chronic sinusitis by creating a partial or complete blockage of one or more of the sinus passages, increasing the likelihood of sinus infections and congestion. This condition can be congenital (present from birth) or result from an injury. Rhinoplasty surgery is sometimes considered for treatment in such cases.
Infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as colds, flu or other respiratory illnesses, can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses. Viruses are the most common cause of these infections, but bacterial or fungal infections can also occur. Respiratory infections often lead to swelling of the sinus tissues and increased mucus production.
While most viral infections resolve on their own, bacteria can sometimes invade the inflamed sinuses, leading to a bacterial sinus infection. Fungal infections are rare but can occur, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Chronic sinusitis may develop if the infection persists or keeps recurring.
The immune system plays a crucial role in fighting infections and managing inflammation. People with immune system deficiencies or autoimmune diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, cystic fibrosis or sarcoidosis, may have an impaired ability to fight off infections or control inflammation, leading to recurrent or chronic sinusitis.
Immune system disorders can make it harder for the body to clear infections, allowing bacteria or fungi to thrive in the sinuses. Autoimmune conditions, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, can also lead to chronic inflammation in the nasal and sinus tissues, resulting in long-term sinus issues.
Environmental irritants such as air pollution, cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, dust, and strong odours can irritate the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses, causing inflammation and swelling. Exposure to dry air or drastic temperature changes can also dry out the nasal passages, making them more vulnerable to infection.
Continuous exposure to these environmental triggers can lead to chronic irritation and inflammation, which can eventually result in chronic sinusitis. Occupational hazards, like exposure to chemicals or dust in certain jobs (such as construction, cleaning, or painting), can also increase the risk of developing sinus problems.
Sinus surgery is typically recommended when chronic sinusitis or other sinus-related issues do not improve with standard medical treatments. Your primary care doctor may refer you to a sinus specialist for ENT care or explore other treatment options.
Here are some key reasons why ENT specialists might recommend surgery:
Persistent Symptoms Despite Treatment:
If you’ve tried medication options like corticosteroids, antibiotics, nasal sprays, or saline irrigation without significant relief, surgery may be the next step. Chronic sinusitis that lasts more than 12 weeks and doesn’t respond to these treatments often indicates a physical blockage or a condition that surgery can correct.
Other reasons may include:
An ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist, is highly qualified to diagnose and treat chronic sinusitis. Here’s how they can help:
The ENT specialist sinusitis doctor will conduct a thorough exam of the nose and sinuses, often using specialised tools like a nasal endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) to look inside the nasal passages.
If needed, they may order a CT scan or MRI to get detailed images of the sinuses and identify blockages, polyps, or other structural issues.
If allergies are suspected as a trigger, the sinus specialist may perform or refer you for allergy testing.
The ENT may prescribe stronger medications such as oral corticosteroids, topical steroid sprays, or antifungal treatments if a fungal infection is involved.
If a bacterial infection is present, they may prescribe a course of antibiotics.
The sinus specialist may also recommend or demonstrate saline irrigation techniques to help keep the sinuses clear or relieve nasal obstruction.
If medical treatments are insufficient or the sinusitis is due to structural problems like nasal polyps or a deviated septum, the ENT may recommend sinus surgery.
The sinus specialist can help create a personalised long-term management plan that includes strategies to reduce the frequency of sinusitis flare-ups. This may involve allergy management, lifestyle adjustments, and preventive treatments like regular use of saline sprays or antihistamines.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: The most common type of sinus surgery. It uses a small camera and instruments inserted through the nostrils to remove blockages, polyps, or tissue and widen sinus openings.
Balloon Sinuplasty: A less invasive option where a small balloon is inserted into the blocked sinus and inflated to widen the passage, allowing for better drainage.
Septoplasty: Corrects a deviated septum, improving airflow and sinus function.
When considering chronic sinusitis treatment, trust Complete ENT’s sinus surgeons. Our experienced team works across multiple convenient locations in Brisbane and Cairns, offering compassionate care that makes us the go-to experts for sinus procedures.
You can rely on our ENT specialist sinusitis surgeons to provide expert guidance and personalised treatment to help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life.
Call us on
07 3905 5999
CompleteENT are a team of leading otolaryngologists who are proudly delivering outstanding care to adults and children with ear, nose and throat conditions in Queensland.