Sinus infections are more common than you may think. Dr. Murray Grossan, a leading specialist in sinusitis, states that more than 35 million people in the United States suffer from sinus infections. Sinus infections are commonly the byproduct of a common cold or severe allergies due to bacteria, a virus or fungus settling in the sinus cavity. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Diseases, sinus infections are categorized into four main types--acute, subacute, chronic and recurrent. The different kinds of sinus infections are categorized by their onset and duration.
Acute Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis lasts up to four weeks. Acute sinusitis is typically the result of the common cold, according to the Mayo Clinic. Acute sinusitis usually affects people with no previous sinus issues. The infection is an isolated event resulting from sickness. Acute sinusitis restricts breathing freely through the nose and may result in soreness and swelling throughout the face. Acute sinusitis simply needs to run its course and can be treated with common over-the-counter drugs. See a doctor to determine if you need antibiotics.
Subacute Sinusitis
Subacute sinusitis lasts between four and 12 weeks. Once properly diagnosed, your doctor will want to keep a close eye on your symptoms. When a sinus infection enters into the subacute status, it becomes more concerning. Subacute sinusitis is typically treated aggressively with antibiotics, decongestants and antihistamines. Leaving a sinus infection untreated for a longer period of time can lead to more complicated infections throughout the body such as ear infections, throat infections and eye infections.
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis is a sinus infection that lasts more than 12 weeks and continues for an undetermined length of time. While a chronic sinus infection can be an isolated event due to a viral or bacterial infection, it is more commonly caused by other factors such as nasal polyps (sinus growths) or a deviated septum (crooked nasal divide). If the chronic sinus infection is due to physical factors, the most common treatment is surgery. The symptoms of chronic sinusitis are the same (headache, fatigue, congestion) as acute sinusitis but are typically more severe.
Recurrent Sinusitis
Unlike chronic sinusitis, recurrent sinusitis is not consistent. Instead the sinus infection comes and goes periodically over the span of months or a year. Recurrent sinusitis is commonly related to allergies or environmental factors causing the common occurrence. Recurrent sinusitis is typically treated with preventive measures, such as avoiding allergens and taking a daily antihistamine.
