Chronic sinusitis occurs when the spaces inside your head and nose (sinuses) are inflamed and swollen for three months or longer, despite treatment.

Your nose becomes congested due to this widespread disorder, which disrupts the natural drainage of mucus. The area surrounding your eyes may feel swollen or irritated, and breathing through your nose might be challenging. Nasal polyps, an infection, a swelling of the sinus lining, or any of these factors can cause chronic sinusitis. The illness, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis, can affect both adults and children.

Chronic sinusitis is different from recurrent sinusitis because chronic sinusitis symptoms never really go away for extended periods. In recurrent sinusitis, you have multiple episodes of the condition in a single year, although there are also times when you are symptom-free.

An Overview of Nasal Polyps

Soft growths inside the sinuses and nasal passageways are known as nasal polyps. These tear-shaped growths are benign and range in size from tiny to large. They frequently grow near the point where the sinuses open up into the nasal cavity. The greater the growth, the more difficult it may be for the sinuses to drain properly, and the more likely that nasal obstruction will reoccur. This is due to the ability of the nasal polyps to significantly reduce the size of the tiny sinus drainage openings.

Nasal polyps don't hurt, yet they can nonetheless result in specific annoying symptoms, such as:

●    Difficulty in breathing through the nose

●    Chronic nasal congestion

●    Runny nose

●    Sneezing

●    Snoring

●    Post nasal drip

●    Reduced ability to taste and smell

●    Recurrent sinusitis

The Relationship between Chronic Sinusitis and Nasal Polyps

Although nasal polyps are not always the cause of chronic sinusitis, there is a connection between the two. Persistent (also known as chronic) or recurrent bouts of acute sinusitis can occur when they restrict or interfere with regular sinus drainage. This is due to the possibility that polyps obstruct mucus drainage from the sinus canals, leading to mucus buildup, irritation, and, ultimately, infection. The ultimate consequence includes terrible nasal pressure, discomfort, and symptoms, including headaches.

Medical experts have also found data suggesting that nasal polyps may be encouraged to develop by the persistent inflammation associated with chronic sinusitis. In this case, chronic sinusitis leads to nasal polyps, which can obstruct normal sinus drainage and cause sinusitis.

In addition to sinusitis, there are a few other conditions that are linked to nasal polyps. If you have asthma or allergic rhinitis, it is advised that you get a medical assessment because these conditions have both been connected to the development of nasal polyps. Additionally, nasal polyps may run in families. There is a higher likelihood that you will acquire nasal polyps if a close relative has already been diagnosed with them.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

If your symptoms persist for more than 10 days, or if you are in discomfort, call your doctor. Calling is also advised if you have a stiff neck, swollen eyes, or visual issues.

Dr. Eric F. Succar is a board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT) with expertise in acute sinus, nasal, and skull base problems. Get in touch with me today if you want an expert's opinion on sinusitis. You can visit my office in Waterford, Michigan (Oakland County). I also treat patients from Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston, Pontiac, and Troy, Michigan. Contact me online or give me a call at (248) 254-8900 to schedule an appointment.