Sinusitis, also known as a sinus infection or rhinosinusitis, is inflammation of the sinuses

resulting in symptoms. Common signs and symptoms include thick nasal mucous, a plugged
nose, and pain in the face.[1] Other signs and symptoms may include fever, headaches, poor sense
of smell, sore throat, and cough.[2][3] The cough is often worse at night. Serious complications are
rare.[3] It is defined as acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) if it lasts less than 4 weeks, and as chronic
rhinosinusitis (CRS) if it lasts for more than 12 weeks.[1]
It can be due to infection, allergies, air pollution, or structural problems in the nose. Most cases
are due to a viral infection.[2] A bacterial infection may be present if symptoms last more than ten
days or if a person worsens after starting to improve. Recurrent episodes are more likely in
people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and poor immune function. X-rays are not typically needed
unless complications are suspected. In chronic cases confirmatory testing is recommended by
either direct visualization or computed tomography.[1]
Some cases may be prevented by hand washing, avoiding smoking, and immunization.[2] Pain
killers such as naproxen, nasal steroids, and nasal irrigation may be used to help with symptoms.
[1][4]
Treating ARS with or without an antibiotic is reasonable for uncomplicated bacterial cases. If
after a further seven days there is still no improvement antibiotics may either be recommended or
changed. In those in whom antibiotics are used, either amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanate is
recommended first line.[1] Surgery may occasionally be used in people with chronic disease.[5]
Sinusitis is a common condition.[1] It affects about between 10% and 30% of people each year in
the United States and Europe.[1][6] Women are more often affected than men.[7] Chronic sinusitis
affects approximately 12.5% of people.[8] Treatment of sinusitis in the United States results in
more than 11 billion USD in costs.[1]