Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS)

What is CRS?

Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a long-term inflammation of the nasal and sinus mucosa that lasts for 12 weeks or more, despite treatment attempts.

Rhinosinusitis vs Sinusitis

Feature	Rhinosinusitis	Sinusitis
Definition	Inflammation of both the nasal cavity and sinuses.	Inflammation of the sinuses only.
Cause	Often caused by infections (viral, bacterial, fungal), allergies, or irritants.	Usually caused by infections, allergies, or structural issues in the sinuses.
Symptoms	Nasal congestion, facial pain, postnasal drip, headache, fever.	Facial pain, pressure in the sinuses, nasal discharge, headache.
Types	Acute, subacute, chronic, and recurrent.	Acute and chronic.
Treatment	Supportive care, nasal irrigation, decongestants, antibiotics (if bacterial).	Similar treatment but may include surgery for chronic cases.

Types of CRS

• CRS with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP): Characterized by growths (polyps) in the nasal passages and sinuses.
• CRS without Nasal Polyps (CRSsNP): Involves chronic inflammation without polyp formation.
• Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis (AFRS): Caused by a reaction to fungal allergens.

Symptoms of CRS

• Persistent nasal congestion or blockage
• Facial pressure or pain, especially around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes
• Thick nasal discharge (often yellow or green)
• Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the throat)
• Loss of smell or taste
• Fatigue and headaches
• Ear fullness or pressure

Causes & Risk Factors

• Untreated acute sinus infections
• Allergies & asthma
• Nasal polyps
• Deviated nasal septum or other structural issues
• Immune system disorders
• Environmental irritants (smoke, pollution, dust)

Treatment Options

• Nasal corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation
• Saline nasal irrigation: Flushes out irritants
• Antibiotics: Only if a bacterial infection is confirmed
• Allergy treatment: Antihistamines, immunotherapy
• Surgery (FESS – Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery): For severe or persistent cases (Click here to learn more.)