Sinusitis, also known as rhinosinusitis, is an inflammation of the tissue that lines the sinuses. This common condition afflicts more than 10% of the population.
Normally the sinuses are filled with air, but when sinuses become blocked, pathogens including bacteria, viruses and fungi can grow and cause an infection. Structural issues such as narrowed drainage anatomy are often associated with sinusitis.
As a result, sufferers may experience nasal congestion and discolored discharge, pain around the eyes, forehead and cheeks, fatigue, fever, dental pain and headaches. Potential triggers may include the common cold and other viral respiratory illnesses, allergies, environmental irritants, and nasal polyps.
The sinuses

Types of sinusitis
The general term sinusitis is often used to describe specific conditions that differ in duration and cause.
- Acute Sinusitis
- Chronic Sinusitis
- Recurrent Sinusitis
- Other Sinus Conditions
Acute Sinusitis
Your common cold, allergies or other triggers have led to sinusitis symptoms that have lasted a week or less. Learn more about Acute Sinusitis

Chronic Sinusitis
Symptoms such as facial pain, headaches, congestion and fatigue last for 12 weeks or longer. Learn more about Chronic Sinusitis

Recurrent Sinusitis
Your sinus pain, nasal congestion and other symptoms last 10 days or more, and come and go four or more times per year. Learn more about Recurrent Sinusitis

Other Sinus Conditions
Learn about other conditions, including barosinusitis and sinus headaches, that can cause related symptoms. Learn more about other conditions

Do You Have Sinusitis?
If your sinus infection does not go away after treatment, or goes away and comes back repeatedly, you may have chronic sinusitis or recurrent sinusitis. Take a Quick Self-Assessment to find out more.
Start the Quick Self-AssessmentYou’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from sinusitis, and many of them have found lasting relief. Watch a few success stories.