Chronic Sinus Infections: What Is the Problem?

Chronic sinus infections last about two months and continually come back. They occur when nasal passages are swollen and inflamed, which causes a build up of mucus and makes it hard to breathe.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of chronic sinus infections include nasal congestion, facial tenderness and swelling, sore throat, nausea, ear pain and a thick, yellow or green nasal discharge.

Medical Conditions

• Chronic sinus infections can be caused by respiratory tract infections, such as colds, which block mucus drainage. They can also be caused by complications of other medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis and HIV.

Allergies

• Allergic reactions such as fungal infections and allergies such as hay fever can cause inflammation that blocks sinus passages.

Internal Blockage

• Chronic sinus infections can be caused by polyps or tumors in the nasal passages or sinuses. They may also result from blockage by a deviated septum, which is the wall between nostrils.

Trauma

• Chronic sinus infections can occur when nasal passages are obstructed because of trauma such as a fracture or broken facial bone.