Frequently Asked Questions about Rhinosinusitis

A high percentage of cases of acute rhinosinusitis do not need antibiotics as they are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are only indicated when the symptoms still persist after 10 days of treatment or in position if any complications arise.

Acute rhinosinusitis (common cold) itself is not contagious, but since it is caused by a virus, what is actually transmitted is the viral agent, which may or may not cause rhinosinusitis in the person exposed.

No, in cases of acute rhinosinusitis, only symptomatic treatment should be given to relieve pain and nasal congestion.

No; just one previous episode of acute rhinosinusitis does not increase the risk of developing chronic rhinosinusitis.

In the case of chronic rhinosinusitis, patients must follow a course of maintenance treatment, but the preferred option will always be the lowest level of treatment that provides control over the symptoms.

Endoscopic surgery is endonasal, meaning it is performed through the nostrils and does not leave external scars.

Loss of smell is the most common sequela of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. Many studies have shown that both medical/biological and surgical treatments improve the sense of smell.

The symptoms are mainly due to nasal obstruction caused by secretions or nasal polyps as a result of the inflammation associated with the disease.

If your symptoms are only on one side or accompanied by symptoms other than those described here, consult your specialist to determine if there is another cause.

In acute rhinosinusitis, additional tests are usually not necessary. However, in chronic rhinosinusitis, an endonasal examination (endoscopy) and, typically, an imaging study should be performed.

Whenever acute rhinosinusitis does not resolve with standard medical treatment, or in cases of chronic rhinosinusitis, you should consult a specialist.

Intranasal corticosteroids are the first-line treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis. Because of their low systemic absorption, they are very safe for long-term use and can even be used in young children.

Due to their high rate of side effects, their dose and duration should be limited to short courses (1–3 weeks).

In general, no, since acute rhinosinusitis is viral, so treatment should be symptomatic. Antibiotics should be reserved only for patients with a clear suspicion of bacterial infection.