Sinus infections are more than just a stuffy nose. For many people, sinusitis becomes a frustrating cycle of congestion, facial pressure, and fatigue that just won’t go away. However, not all sinus infections are the same, and understanding the different types can help you get the right treatment and long-term relief.

Whether your symptoms come on suddenly or keep coming back, Dr. Arjuna Kuperan at Houston Advanced Nose & Sinus offers personalized solutions to help you breathe easier.

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis occurs when the sinus cavities become inflamed, often due to infection, allergies, or structural issues in the nose. It can affect anyone, at any age, and varies widely in how long it lasts and how severe the symptoms are.

Common signs of sinusitis include:

• Facial pressure or pain
• Nasal congestion or blockage
• Thick nasal discharge (often yellow or green)
• Loss of smell or taste
• Headaches, fatigue, or even mild fever

There are two main categories: acute, which resolves quickly, and chronic, which lingers for 12 weeks or more. Within those, there are several subtypes, each requiring a tailored treatment approach.

“Many patients come in thinking they have ‘just another cold,’ but it turns out to be a type of sinusitis that needs more targeted treatment,” says Dr. Kuperan, a fellowship-trained rhinologist. “That’s why accurate diagnosis is so important.”

The 4 Types of Sinusitis

1. Acute Sinusitis (4 Weeks)

Cause: Most commonly triggered by a viral infection like the common cold.

Symptoms:

• Sudden onset of congestion
• Facial pain or pressure
• Post-nasal drip
• Fatigue or mild fever

Treatment:
Acute sinusitis often improves on its own with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. But if symptoms last more than 10 days or worsen after initially improving, a bacterial infection may be present and antibiotics or prescription treatments may be needed.

When to see an ENT:
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, or if this isn’t your first infection, it’s worth seeing a sinus specialist to prevent complications.

2. Subacute Sinusitis (Lasts 4–8 Weeks)

Cause: Usually begins as acute sinusitis that doesn’t fully resolve.

Symptoms:

• Prolonged congestion
• Thick nasal discharge
• Sinus pressure or facial tenderness
• Decreased sense of smell

Treatment:
Subacute sinusitis may require a longer course of medication, including nasal steroids or antibiotics. If left untreated, it can develop into chronic sinusitis.

3. Chronic Sinusitis (12 Weeks or More)

Cause: Chronic sinusitis is often driven by long-term inflammation, not just infection. It may be linked to nasal polyps, allergies, or structural issues like a deviated septum.

Symptoms:

• Persistent nasal congestion
• Ongoing post-nasal drip
• Facial pressure or fullness
• Fatigue and brain fog

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include allergy testing, nasal sprays, oral steroids, or minimally invasive sinus surgery. Dr. Kuperan uses advanced imaging and endoscopic tools to pinpoint the problem and create a personalized care plan.

“Chronic sinusitis can seriously affect your quality of life—but the good news is, we have safe, effective treatments that can make a dramatic difference,” says Dr. Kuperan.

4. Recurrent Acute Sinusitis (3+ Infections per Year)

Cause: This type involves repeated short-term sinus infections, often triggered by allergies, immune deficiencies, or untreated structural problems.

Symptoms:

• Frequent sinus infections with symptom-free periods in between
• Similar signs as acute sinusitis
• Fatigue from ongoing inflammation

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on preventing future infections by identifying the root cause. This may include allergy management, sinus imaging, or surgical correction if needed.

If you’re frequently dealing with sinus infections, take our Sinus Quiz to understand what your treatment options might be.

When to See a Sinus Specialist in Houston

Consider seeing an ENT like Dr. Kuperan if you experience:

• Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days
• More than 3 sinus infections in a year
• Persistent nasal congestion or facial pain
• No relief from medications
• Difficulty breathing, swelling, or worsening symptoms

Dr. Kuperan provides expert evaluation using in-office nasal endoscopy and CT imaging to diagnose your condition accurately, often during your first visit.

Find the Right Treatment for Your Sinus Condition

No two sinus infections are exactly alike. That’s why we believe in individualized care based on your symptoms, history, and lifestyle. While many patients improve with medication alone, minimally invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty or image-guided sinus surgery can offer long-term relief when conservative options fail.

Don’t let recurring sinus infections control your life. Reach out to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kuperan today.