Rhinitis and sinusitis share many symptoms, but the conditions aren’t the same. While rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal membranes, sinusitis is an inflammation of your sinuses (the hollow passages in the bones surrounding your nose).
While you may have postnasal drip, a feeling of congestion, or a loss of smell with both, sinusitis can also cause fever and pain or pressure in the sinus area. Chronic rhinitis can lead to sinusitis which is why seeking treatment is essential.