Sinusitis: Viral, Bacterial, or Chronic?
Most acute sinusitis is viral; antibiotics are needed only when symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Most acute sinusitis is viral; antibiotics are needed only when symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen.
What you need to remember
- Management — Saline irrigation, intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants short-term.
Facial pain, nasal congestion, purulent discharge, decreased smell.
Management
Saline irrigation, intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants short-term.
Chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps benefits from long-term steroid sprays and, in refractory cases, biologics.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Chronic
- A problem that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and often comes back.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Sinusitis: Viral, Bacterial, or Chronic??
- Most acute sinusitis is viral; antibiotics are needed only when symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Sinusitis: Viral, Bacterial, or Chronic??
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Sinusitis: Viral, Bacterial, or Chronic??
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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