Sinusitis is defined by Medline Plus as inflammation in the sinus cavity commonly cause by a cold, allergies or nasal deformities. A sinus infection that lasts less than eight weeks is considered acute, while a sinus infection lasting more than eight weeks is considered chronic, according to the Mayoclinic.com. Acute sinusitis usually clears up on its own, while chronic sinusitis is more difficult to cure. Both conditions require an assessment and proper diagnosis from a medical doctor.
Causes
According to Familydoctor.org, acute sinus infections are commonly the result of seasonal allergies and the common cold. Allergies cause the sinuses to become inflamed, which can trap mucus in the sinus cavity. This leads to the growth of bacteria and viruses that cause the infection to set in. Chronic sinusitis is caused by nasal polyps, a deviated septum, an injury to the face or chronic allergies such as hay fever, according to Mayoclinic.com.
Symptoms
Most symptoms of acute and chronic sinusitis are similar, but some symptoms may point more to a chronic condition. The shared symptoms are bad breath, fatigue, a low-grade fever, sinus pressure pain, nasal discharge, congestion, postnasal drip, sore throat and cough, according to Medline Plus. Symptoms more common with chronic sinus infections are a high-grade fever that lasts for more than three days, dark nasal discharge, symptoms that get better and then worse, and persistent sinus pressure.
Treatment
Acute sinusitis rarely requires the use of antibiotics, according to Medline Plus. Acute sinusitis is treated with over-the-counter medication that helps alleviate the symptoms and helps the body drain excess mucus. Decongestants are used to treat sinus congestion. Decongestants reduce inflammation in the nasal cavities and restore the ability to breathe normally and properly drain discharge. Pain relievers are used to treat sinus-pressure pain caused by inflamed sinuses, and to reduce fever. Chronic sinusitis may require antibiotics and sinus surgery to correct any physical deformities, according to Mayoclinic.com.
Complications
The University of Maryland's Medical Center states that complications from acute and chronic sinus infections can include bone infections, eye infections, ear infections, meningitis and blood clots. Most of these are avoidable by seeing a doctor regularly or at the first signs of a sinus infection.
Considerations
Mayoclinic.com states that using a humidifier, avoiding irritants and managing allergies reduces the chances of someone developing an acute or chronic sinus infection. Irritants can include cigarette smoke, pollution and perfumes. See an allergist for proper identification of allergens and treatment.
