Sinusitis is inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses, often caused or complicated by allergies, structural abnormalities, immune dysfunction, or infection. Acute sinusitis lasts up to four weeks; chronic sinusitis persists for 12 weeks or more despite treatment. Allergic rhinitis is a major risk factor for chronic sinusitis, as nasal inflammation impairs sinus drainage and creates an environment prone to infection.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Facial pain, pressure, or fullness — particularly around the forehead, cheeks, or eyes
- Nasal congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Postnasal drip causing sore throat or cough
- Reduced or absent sense of smell
- Fatigue, headache, and ear pressure
How We Diagnose
Our evaluation for sinusitis includes a detailed symptom history and physical examination, assessment of allergic triggers through skin testing or blood tests, evaluation for underlying immune deficiency that may predispose to recurrent bacterial infections, and coordination with ENT specialists when anatomical factors such as nasal polyps or deviated septum require surgical evaluation.
Treatment Options
Depending on the cause and severity, treatment may include targeted antibiotics for acute bacterial episodes, intranasal corticosteroids to reduce mucosal inflammation, saline nasal irrigation for hygiene and mucus clearance, allergen immunotherapy to address the allergic component driving chronic inflammation, and evaluation and management of immunodeficiency when recurrent infections point to an underlying immune problem.
Ready to Schedule?
You deserve to breathe freely. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group to schedule a comprehensive sinus evaluation and get back to feeling your best. Call us at (408) 286-1707 or request an appointment online.