Nasal discharge and congestion are unpleasant on their own but become more concerning when persistent. If the mucus becomes thicker, yellowish, or greenish, and nasal obstruction worsens rather than improves, the underlying issue is likely a sinus infection.
What is a sinus infection or sinusitis?
Sinus infection or sinusitis is a common inflammatory condition affecting the paranasal sinuses (frontal, maxillary, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses). These air-filled cavities around the nose and forehead are essential for breathing regulation, voice resonance, and trapping airborne particles. Sinus inflammation often begins with a mild nasal infection, such as a common cold, which spreads to the sinuses. In sinusitis, the sinuses fill with mucus and pus due to the proliferation of pathogens, significantly obstructing drainage into the nasal cavity. A sinus infection may be acute, subacute, or chronic, with symptoms varying in severity and duration.
Causes of sinusitis
A sinus infection occurs when mucus blocks normal drainage, leading to inflammation. Common causes include:
- Viral infections (e.g., the common cold) that swell nasal mucosa and block sinus drainage.
- Bacterial infections, often developing after viral infections, caused by pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae.
- Fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals or areas with high humidity.
- Allergic reactions to pollen or dust, leading to chronic mucosal inflammation.
- Anatomical issues, such as deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps, or turbinate hypertrophy, that obstruct airflow and drainage.
- Irritants, including pollution, smoke, or chemical agents.
Symptoms of a sinus infection
Symptoms vary based on the type and duration of sinusitis:
- Acute sinusitis: Symptoms last up to 4 weeks and include thick yellow/green nasal discharge, nasal congestion, facial pressure, headache, and partial or complete loss of smell. Pain may localize around the eyes or forehead, with fatigue, lethargy, and sleep disturbances also present.
- Chronic sinus infection: Lasting over 12 weeks, symptoms include persistent congestion, continuous discharge, recurrent headaches, and loss of smell, alongside fatigue and discomfort. Severe symptoms like fever, intense headaches, or swelling around the eyes may indicate complications requiring immediate medical attention.
Complications of sinusitis
Although most sinusitis cases resolve naturally, severe infections may lead to:
- Brain inflammation, such as meningitis or brain abscesses.
- Orbital inflammation, causing eye swelling or vision loss.
- Chronic sinus infection if acute inflammation is untreated.
Sinus infection diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on patient history and clinical examination. Additional tests may include:
- Nasal endoscopy for detailed sinus visualization.
- CT scans for complex cases or surgical planning.
- Mucus culture to identify pathogens.
How to prevent sinusitis
Timely recognition and treatment of symptoms can prevent chronic complications. Preventive measures include:
- Maintaining nasal hygiene and regular saline rinses.
- Avoiding smoking and irritants.
- Managing allergies and chronic conditions.
- Addressing anatomical issues surgically, if needed.
Treatment options for a sinus infection
Treatment depends on the nature and duration of inflammation:
- Acute viral sinusitis: Managed with saline rinses, pain relievers, and nasal corticosteroids.
- Bacterial sinusitis: Requires antibiotics.
- Chronic sinusitis: Combines nasal rinses, corticosteroids, and antibiotics.
For chronic or complex cases unresponsive to conservative measures, Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is the gold standard. This advanced, minimally invasive procedure uses state-of-the-art endoscopes for optimal visibility and access to affected areas. Obstructive tissue and infected mucus are removed without external incisions, preserving nasal structures.
ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou performs FESS with precision and safety, providing lasting relief and restoring patients’ quality of life.