Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Basic Disease Information - iMedix

CRS is a condition where the sinuses and nasal passages stay inflamed for a long period, making it hard to breathe and often causing pain or pressure in the face.

• Allergies: Frequent exposure to allergens like dust or pollen can trigger inflammation.
• Infections: Recurrent sinus infections can contribute to the development of CRS.
• Nasal Polyps: Small growths in the nasal passages may block airflow and lead to chronic inflammation.
• Immune System Issues: People with weakened immune systems or autoimmune disorders are more prone to CRS.

• Individuals with allergies: Those who suffer from allergic rhinitis or asthma are at higher risk.
• Smokers: Smoking irritates the nasal passages and can increase the risk of CRS.
• People with respiratory infections: Repeated or untreated infections can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Individuals exposed to pollutants or irritants: Regular exposure to air pollution, chemicals, or occupational hazards may raise the risk.

• Nasal Congestion: A feeling of stuffiness in the nose, making it hard to breathe.
• Thick Nasal Discharge: Mucus drainage that may be yellow or green, sometimes running down the back of the throat (postnasal drip).
• Facial Pain or Pressure: Pain or a sensation of pressure around the eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead.
• Decreased Sense of Smell or Taste: Difficulty detecting smells or a loss of the ability to taste food.
• Headaches: Often linked to sinus pressure, causing a dull or throbbing pain.

• Severe Facial Pain: Pain that is sudden or unbearable, especially if accompanied by swelling around the eyes.
• High Fever: Persistent fever over 38.5°C (101.3°F), which could indicate a more serious infection.
• Vision Changes: Blurred or double vision, which may suggest the infection has spread to the eyes.
• Stiff Neck or Confusion: These symptoms could indicate a rare but serious complication, such as the spread of infection to the brain.

• Physical Examination: The doctor will check for signs of nasal inflammation and tenderness around the face.
• Nasal Endoscopy: A small, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the nose to view the sinuses and detect inflammation or blockages.
• Imaging Tests (CT or MRI): These scans provide detailed images of the sinuses, helping to identify structural problems or severe inflammation.
• Allergy Testing: In some cases, testing for allergies may be recommended to identify triggers contributing to the inflammation.

• Medications: Treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis often involves nasal corticosteroid sprays to reduce inflammation, saline nasal irrigation to clear mucus and soothe irritation, and antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. In more severe cases, short-term oral or injected corticosteroids may be prescribed to manage significant inflammation.
• Surgery: If medications do not provide sufficient relief, endoscopic sinus surgery may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure is performed to remove blockages or polyps, helping to improve airflow and sinus drainage.

• Visit a Doctor: Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications.
• Use Over-the-Counter Treatments: Saline nasal sprays and decongestants can provide temporary relief.
• Avoid Triggers: Stay away from allergens, pollutants, and irritants that could worsen your symptoms.

• Manage Allergies: If you have allergies, control symptoms with medications or by avoiding known triggers such as dust, pollen, or pet dander.
• Avoid Smoking and Pollutants: Exposure to tobacco smoke and air pollution can irritate the nasal passages and increase the risk of sinus problems.
• Use a Humidifier: Keeping the air in your home moist can help prevent sinus irritation, especially in dry climates or during winter.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing and avoiding contact with individuals who have colds or respiratory infections can help reduce the risk of infections leading to sinusitis.

• Saline Nasal Irrigation: Regularly rinsing your nasal passages with saline helps keep them clear of allergens and irritants, reducing inflammation.
• Allergy Management: Effective allergy control through medications or immunotherapy can help prevent chronic sinus inflammation.
• Seek Prompt Treatment for Respiratory Infections: Early treatment of colds or flu can prevent these infections from developing into sinusitis.