Chronic rhinosinusitis

Chronic Rhinosinusitis is a long-term condition that occurs due to inflammation of the nose and sinuses, which are air-filled spaces behind the nose and cheeks. Inflammation is caused by a wide range of factors such as infection, allergy or abnormalities in the sinuses. Symptoms include nasal blockage or congestion, nasal discharge which may have an abnormal colour, post nasal drip, facial pain or pressure, reduced sense of smell or taste, and cough. Treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis includes medication such as nasal steroid sprays or drops, steroid tablets, salt water nasal washes, antibiotics, and when medication fails, endoscopic sinus surgery. Surgery aims to remove polyps, open the sinuses and allow medication to treat the nasal lining effectively. Continued use of medication is an important part of the long term treatment of this condition.