Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 461.9      ICD10: J01.90      ICD11: CA0A

Let's break down what "Sinus, Sinusitis (rhinosinusitis)" means:

Sinus: These are air-filled spaces in the bones of your face, located around your nose and eyes.
We have four pairs of sinuses:
Maxillary sinuses: Located in the cheekbones.
Frontal sinuses: Located in the forehead above the eyes.
Ethmoid sinuses: Located between the eyes and nose.
Sphenoid sinuses: Located deeper behind the nose and between the eyes.
Function: Sinuses help to humidify and warm the air we breathe, lighten the skull, and contribute to resonance of the voice. They also produce mucus that drains into the nasal passages, helping to trap and clear debris and pathogens.

Sinusitis: This means inflammation or swelling of the lining of the sinuses. When the sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses, or fungi) can grow and cause an infection.

Rhinosinusitis: This is the more accurate term, as sinusitis is almost always accompanied by inflammation of the nasal passages (rhinitis). Therefore, rhinosinusitis refers to inflammation of both the nasal passages and the sinuses.

In simpler terms:

Sinusitis (or rhinosinusitis) is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces in your skull around your nose and eyes.

Types of Sinusitis:

Acute sinusitis: Usually starts with cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain. It typically lasts 2-4 weeks. Most cases are caused by viruses.
Subacute sinusitis: Lasts 4-12 weeks.
Chronic sinusitis: Symptoms last 12 weeks or longer, even with treatment.
Recurrent sinusitis: Several episodes of sinusitis within a year.

Symptoms of Sinusitis:

Common symptoms may include:

Nasal congestion or stuffiness
Thick, discolored (green or yellow) nasal discharge
Postnasal drip (mucus draining down the back of the throat)
Facial pain, pressure, or tenderness (especially around the nose, eyes, forehead, or cheeks)
Headache
Cough
Fatigue
Fever
Toothache
Bad breath
Reduced sense of smell

Causes of Sinusitis:

Viral infections: Common cold, flu
Bacterial infections: Often a secondary infection following a viral cold
Fungal infections: Less common, but can occur, especially in people with weakened immune systems
Allergies: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can contribute to sinusitis
Nasal polyps: Growths in the nasal passages that can block sinuses
Deviated septum: A crooked nasal septum can block sinuses
Other medical conditions: Such as cystic fibrosis, immune deficiency disorders, and dental infections

Treatment for Sinusitis:

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the sinusitis. Options may include:

Home remedies: Saline nasal sprays or irrigation, warm compresses, steam inhalation, rest, and hydration.
Decongestants: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to help relieve nasal congestion. Use with caution and for a limited time.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Nasal corticosteroids: Prescription nasal sprays to reduce inflammation.
Antibiotics: Prescribed if the sinusitis is caused by a bacterial infection. These are NOT effective against viral sinusitis.
Antifungal medications: Prescribed if the sinusitis is caused by a fungal infection.
Allergy medications: Antihistamines or other allergy medications if allergies are contributing to the sinusitis.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to remove nasal polyps, correct a deviated septum, or open up blocked sinuses.

When to See a Doctor:

If your symptoms are severe.
If your symptoms don't improve after a week or two.
If you have a high fever or severe headache.
If you have a history of chronic sinusitis or other underlying medical conditions.
If you have any concerns about your symptoms.

In summary, sinusitis (rhinosinusitis) is a common condition that can cause a range of symptoms. Treatment options are available, and most people recover fully with appropriate care.