Polysinusitis: Inflammation of Multiple Sinuses – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Polysinusitis refers to simultaneous inflammation and infection of multiple paranasal sinuses. These air-filled cavities around the nose and eyes help humidify inhaled air, produce mucus, and contribute to voice resonance.

When several sinuses become inflamed—often due to bacterial or viral infections, allergies, or structural blockages that impair drainage—the result is polysinusitis.

Common Symptoms

• Facial pain and pressure around the cheeks, forehead, and nasal bridge.
• Nasal congestion causing difficulty breathing.
• Thick, discolored nasal discharge (yellow or green).
• Headache from sinus pressure.
• Low-grade fever in some cases.
• Fatigue and general malaise.
• Bad breath from pus and mucus.
• Cough and sore throat due to postnasal drip.
• Tooth pain (upper teeth) from referred sinus pressure.
• Reduced sense of smell or taste.

Treatment

Management typically includes antibiotics for bacterial infection, nasal decongestants or corticosteroid sprays to reduce swelling, saline irrigation, and pain relievers. In chronic or severe cases, endoscopic sinus surgery may be recommended to restore drainage and ventilation.