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What is Sinusitis?
An Overview.

Sinusitis affects 37 million people each year, making it one of the most common health problems in the U.S. It is more prevalent than heart disease and asthma and has a greater impact on quality of life than chronic back pain or congestive heart failure. Symptoms may significantly affect people physically, functionally, and emotionally.


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The Role of the Sinuses

To understand sinusitis, it is important to first learn about your sinuses and their role in your health.

The sinuses are air spaces behind the bones of the upper face, between the eyes and behind the forehead, nose, and cheeks. The sinuses are covered with a mucus layer and cells that contain little hairs on their surfaces called cilia. These help trap and push out bacteria and pollutants.

Each sinus has an opening that allows mucous to drain—this drainage is essential to keeping your sinuses working well and you healthy. Anything that obstructs that flow may cause a buildup of mucus in the sinuses and trigger symptoms that range from minor to severe.

Experts agree that healthy sinuses are a key to a good quality of life and that unhealthy sinuses may cause some unwanted complications.

Sinusitis Defined

Sinusitis is defined as an inflammation of the sinus lining commonly caused by bacterial, viral and/or microbial infections; as well as, structural issues such as an ostial blockage. Symptoms include:

  • Nasal Congestion
  • Facial Discomfort
  • Nasal Discharge
  • Headache
  • Fatigue

Are you suffering from the following?

There are two main categories of sinusitis: acute and chronic.

Sinusitis is usually preceded by a cold, allergy attack or irritation from environmental pollutants. Often, the resulting symptoms, such as nasal pressure, nasal congestion, a “runny nose,” and fever, run their course in a few days. However, if symptoms persist, a bacterial infection or acute sinusitis may develop.

Most cases of sinusitis are acute (or sudden onset); however, if the condition occurs frequently or lasts 12 weeks or more, you may have chronic sinusitis.

Sinusitis Facts

  • Sinusitis affects approximately 14% of the adult U.S. population

  • Sinusitis affects 17% of women and 10% of men each year

  • Chronic sinusitis (not including acute sinusitis) results annually in an
    estimated 18-22 million physician office visits
  • Direct healthcare expenditures due to sinusitis cost are well over $8 billion each year*

  • Sinusitis is also responsible for a significant loss of workplace productivity
  • Total restricted activity days due to sinusitis are well over 73 million per year


* Inflation Adjusted

Get in Touch with American Sinus Institute.

Have questions, concerns, or ready to take the next step towards better sinus health? Our team is here to assist you. Reach out to us and let us guide you on your journey to a clearer, healthier life.

Kelsi Gray

I had a wonderful experience from the initial contact, scan, surgery and follow up.Staff, doctor, nurses, EVERYONE was wonderful!I had my surgery in June and I am still thankful everyday I can breathe through my nose.Thank you so much Dr. Shah and your wonderful team!

Dominique Arzola

I don’t typically review my doctor’s offices, but American Sinus Institute was just amazing and I was left extremely impressed. I saw PA Nathan Crowder for my initial visit and he stayed with me reviewing my CT/answering all my questions …

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David Z. Mireles

I had an Otolaryngology appointment with Dr. Anand Shah today. I must say that I am very impressed with his knowledge, education and expertise in his fields of practice. He is professional, thorough, easy to speak to, answers all questions you may have and genuinely cares about your medic...

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jor26ge

Is the best ENT you will ever find , they did everything possible and worked with the insurance  to do the surgery and they are courteous and professional . I had surgery and I  am already  starting to feel the difference . I am so happy that I was recommended to him . I totally recommend him to everybody , I am so happy I I could do a major change in my life . Thank you 😊