Urban dwellers who are exposed to increased levels of air pollution may also be at increased risk for developing sinusitis. Some sinus problems can also be caused by malformations present at birth, or injury. Patients with acute sinusitis frequently complain of facial pain, nasal obstruction and discolored nasal discharge. However, the symptoms of chronic sinusitis may be more subtle, often consisting primarily of post-nasal drip, cough, and lethargy. Many patients with chronic sinusitis also suffer from polyps which are benign growths within the nasal passage.
Polyps can be difficult to treat successfully, and often recur unless adequate therapy is started.
Sinusitis is sometimes associated with other medical conditions. Bronchial asthma is frequently worsened by sinusitis. Persons with chronic sinusitis may also develop problems with recurrent bronchitis. Sinuses have mucus drainage pathways that can become acutely or chronically obstructed. Once these pathways are blocked, bacterial or viral infection can develop quickly.