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Published on: May 13, 2022
2 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis can be caused by a number of things, such as allergies, a deviated septum, nasal polyps, and smoking. In some cases, it may also be caused by a fungal infection. Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause. If it's caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If it's caused by a fungal infection, antifungal medications may be prescribed. Surgery may also be necessary to correct a deviated septum or remove nasal polyps.

Chronic sinusitis is a serious medical condition that can cause a great deal of discomfort and can even lead to serious health problems. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis usually include congestion, drainage, pain, and pressure in the face. The cause of chronic sinusitis is not always clear, but it may be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, allergies, structural abnormalities in the nose, or other factors. Treatment for chronic sinusitis generally includes antibiotics if the cause is bacterial, nasal sprays and decongestants if allergies are the cause, and surgery if there is a structural problem with the nose.

Chronic sinusitis, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis, is a long-term inflammation of the lining of the sinuses.[1] It is defined as 12 weeks or more of symptoms that occur for more than four days per week and last for more than three months.[2] Symptoms may include a blocked nose, facial pain and pressure, sneezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing through the nose.

A person with chronic sinusitis may also have fatigue, poor appetite, and weight loss. The cause is not fully understood but is thought to be due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Risk factors include allergies, asthma, smoking, and exposure to certain chemicals.

Chronic sinusitis is a condition where the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, making it difficult to breathe. In most cases, the cause of chronic sinusitis is unknown, but it may be related to a viral infection, allergies, or changes in the immune system. There is no one-size-fits-all cure for chronic sinusitis, but some treatments that may help include nasal sprays or irrigation, antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection, antihistamines if you have allergies, and surgery for polyps or other structural problems. Some people also find relief from using a humidifier or steam inhalation.

There are many potential causes of chronic sinusitis, including allergies, infection, and autoimmune conditions. Treatment for chronic sinusitis usually involves medications to reduce inflammation and mucus production, as well as lifestyle changes such as avoiding allergens and smoking. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases.

It's defined as sinusitis that lasts for 12 weeks or longer. Symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pressure and pain, decreased sense of smell and taste, and post-nasal drip. There are many causes of chronic sinusitis, including allergies, anatomic abnormalities (like a deviated septum), smoking, and immune system disorders. Treatment depends on the cause but may include antibiotics, steroid nasal sprays, decongestants, and surgery.

Chronic sinusitis can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common of which is allergies. Other causes can include bacterial or viral infections, structural problems with the nose or sinuses, and autoimmune diseases. Treatment for chronic sinusitis depends on the underlying cause, and may include medications such as antibiotics, decongestants, and steroids; surgery; or other treatments such as nasal irrigation or allergy immunotherapy. Chronic sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses that doesn't go away. It's often caused by a cold or allergies, and it can last for months or even years.

Symptoms of chronic sinusitis include a stuffy nose, headache, pain in the face, and a sore throat. You may also have trouble breathing through your nose. The best way to treat chronic sinusitis is with antibiotics. If the antibiotics don't help, you may need surgery to remove the infected tissue.

Chronic sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for more than 12 weeks. It can be caused by a number of different things, such as allergies, a cold or flu, a deviated septum, or nasal polyps. Symptoms include congestion, a runny nose, facial pain and pressure, headache, and bad breath. Treatment typically involves antibiotics if the cause is bacterial, antihistamines and decongestants if the cause is allergies, and surgery if the cause is a deviated septum or nasal polyps. In some cases, chronic sinusitis can also be treated with steroid injections into the sinuses or with saline irrigations.

There can be many causes of chronic sinusitis, including allergies, autoimmune diseases, structural problems within the nose, and infections. Treatment for chronic sinusitis depends on the underlying cause. If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed. If allergies are the cause, antihistamines or allergy shots may be recommended. Surgery may be necessary to correct any structural problems within the nose.

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Asthma Symptoms in Adults: Early Signs, Triggers, and When to Seek Care

Asthma is often perceived as a childhood condition, but a significant number of cases develop or persist into adulthood. In India, adult asthma is increasingly recognised due to rising air pollution, occupational exposure and lifestyle-related risk factors. Unfortunately, asthma symptoms in adults are frequently misdiagnosed as recurrent infections, allergies or age-related breathlessness, leading to delayed treatment.

Understanding adult asthma symptoms is critical for early diagnosis, effective control and prevention of severe attacks.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. In asthma, the airways become:

inflamed
narrow
overly sensitive to triggers

This leads to difficulty in breathing, especially during exposure to specific stimuli.

Why Adult Asthma Is Often Missed

Adult asthma symptoms may:

appear gradually
vary in severity
mimic common respiratory conditions

According to Indian Council of Medical Research and WHO data, many adults remain undiagnosed for years, increasing the risk of complications.

Common Asthma Symptoms in Adults

Wheezing

A high-pitched whistling sound while breathing, especially during exhalation, is a classic asthma sign.

Shortness of Breath

Adults with asthma often feel:

breathless during routine activities
difficulty taking deep breaths

This may worsen at night or early morning.

Chest Tightness

Many describe a sensation of pressure or tightness in the chest, which can be mistaken for heart-related issues.

Chronic Cough

A persistent cough, especially:

at night
early morning
after exercise

is a common but overlooked asthma symptom.

Symptoms That Worsen With Triggers

Asthma symptoms often intensify after exposure to specific triggers.

Air Pollution and Smoke

Urban pollution, vehicle emissions and indoor smoke significantly worsen asthma symptoms in adults.

Allergens

Dust mites, pollen, mould and pet dander are common triggers.

Respiratory Infections

Viral infections can trigger asthma flare-ups or reveal undiagnosed asthma.

Physical Activity

Exercise-induced asthma causes breathlessness and wheezing during or after physical exertion.

Weather Changes

Cold air, humidity and sudden temperature changes can aggravate symptoms.

Adult-Onset Asthma

Adult-onset asthma differs from childhood asthma.

Characteristics include:

onset after age 20–30
less association with childhood allergies
more persistent symptoms
higher likelihood of severe disease

Occupational exposure and hormonal changes contribute to adult-onset asthma.

Risk Factors for Asthma in Adults

Several factors increase asthma risk:

long-term exposure to pollution
smoking or passive smoking
occupational chemicals or dust
obesity
family history of asthma
chronic sinusitis or allergies

Women may experience asthma onset or worsening during hormonal changes.

When Asthma Symptoms Become Serious

Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing:

severe breathlessness
difficulty speaking in full sentences
bluish lips or fingertips
rapid worsening of symptoms
poor response to usual inhalers

These signs indicate a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.

How Adult Asthma Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis includes:

detailed symptom history
physical examination
lung function tests (spirometry)
response to bronchodilators

Early diagnosis improves long-term outcomes.

Impact of Untreated Asthma

Untreated asthma can lead to:

frequent attacks
reduced lung function
sleep disturbances
missed workdays
reduced quality of life

According to Lancet respiratory studies, uncontrolled asthma increases hospitalisation risk.

Managing Asthma Symptoms in Adults

Effective asthma management focuses on:

identifying and avoiding triggers
using prescribed inhalers correctly
monitoring symptoms regularly
maintaining follow-up care

Asthma action plans help patients recognise worsening symptoms early.

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare helps:

detect asthma early
assess lung function
guide lifestyle modifications

Regular health checkups are especially important for individuals with respiratory symptoms or occupational exposure.

Lifestyle Measures That Support Asthma Control

Helpful practices include:

avoiding smoking
improving indoor air quality
wearing masks in polluted environments
maintaining healthy weight
regular, moderate exercise

Lifestyle support complements medical treatment.

Mental Health and Asthma

Stress and anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms.

Stress management:

reduces symptom frequency
improves medication response

Holistic care improves asthma outcomes.

Importance of Medication Adherence

Asthma medications work best when:

taken regularly as prescribed
inhaler technique is correct

Skipping treatment increases flare-up risk.

Long-Term Outlook for Adults With Asthma

With proper management:

symptoms are well controlled
severe attacks are preventable
normal activity levels are achievable

Most adults with asthma lead active, productive lives.

Conclusion

Asthma symptoms in adults are often subtle, variable and easily mistaken for common respiratory problems. Wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and chronic cough should not be ignored, especially when triggered by pollution, exercise or weather changes. Early diagnosis, trigger control and consistent treatment are essential to prevent severe attacks and preserve lung health. Recognising adult asthma early empowers individuals to manage symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

References

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Respiratory Disease and Asthma Studies
World Health Organization (WHO) – Asthma Management and Prevention Guidelines
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Respiratory Health Indicators
Lancet Respiratory Medicine – Adult Asthma Outcomes and Management
NITI Aayog – Air Pollution and Respiratory Health Reports
Statista – Global Asthma Prevalence and Trends

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