Why Do Sinus Infections Keep Returning?

Get to the underlying cause of frequent sinus infections and recurring symptoms.

Dermatologist examining patient's skin

When Sinus Infections Keep Returning

Recurrent acute rhinosinusitis, or RARS, refers to four or more acute sinusitis episodes within a year, with symptoms completely clearing between episodes. Attacks commonly cause facial pain or pressure, nasal blockage, and thick drainage, and may require antibiotics. Repeated episodes can become disruptive and have a significant effect on daily life.

What May Be Behind Repeated Infections?

Frequent sinus infections can be linked to factors that make a person more susceptible. These may include structural problems that limit sinus drainage, allergic or nonallergic rhinitis that keeps the nasal lining inflamed, or, less commonly, immune system problems. Treating each infection alone may not resolve the reason they continue to occur.

Factors That Can Contribute

  • Narrow or restricted sinus drainage pathways.

  • Deviated Nasal Septum

  • Enlarged Turbinates

  • Allergic Rhinitis

  • Nasal Polyps

  • Immune Deficiency, Less Commonly

Identifying Why Infections Recur

I use nasal endoscopy and CT imaging to evaluate the sinuses and look for factors contributing to repeated infections. Allergy testing may also be recommended. The goal is to determine whether structural or inflammatory problems are interfering with normal sinus drainage.

Reducing the Cycle of Infections

Treatment may begin by addressing contributing problems such as allergic rhinitis or nasal obstruction. When structural factors are affecting sinus drainage, procedures such as balloon sinus dilation or functional endoscopic sinus surgery may help improve drainage and reduce the frequency of infections.