Rhinosinusitis is a condition that is due to inflammation of your nasal passages and sinus
cavities. Sinuses are spaces within the bones of the face and these spaces are in direct contact
with the nose.
The inflammation causes swelling and blockage of the openings into the nose and hence
accumulation of mucous in these sinuses further worsening the condition.
Rhinosinusitis is divided into four categories depending on how long the illness lasts:
Acute rhinosinusitis: symptoms last less than 4 weeks
Subacute rhinosinusitis: symptoms last 4 to 12 weeks
Chronic rhinosinusitis: symptoms last longer than 12 weeks
Recurrent rhinosinusitis: 4 or more episodes per year
CAUSES
Acute rhinosinusitis is usually due to viral upper respiratory tract infection like a common cold.
This can later be worsened by infection with bacteria.
Chronic rhinosinusitis is usually associated with allergies, nasal polyps, immunity disorders like
cystic fibrosis.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of rhinosinusitis include the following
Discharge or Drainage of a thick, yellow or greenish discharge from the nose or down the
back of the throat (postnasal drainage)
Nasal obstruction or congestion
Pain, tenderness, swelling and pressure around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead that
worsens when bending over
Reduced sense of smell
Other signs and symptoms can include: Ear pressure, Headache, Aching in your upper jaw and
teeth, Cough which