What is chronic sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis, also called chronic rhinosinusitis, is a condition in which the sinuses remain inflamed or swollen for 12 weeks or longer despite treatment. Unlike a typical sinus infection that improves within a few days or weeks, chronic sinusitis can cause ongoing symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pressure, thick nasal drainage, postnasal drip, decreased sense of smell, headaches, fatigue, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Many patients in Houston mistake chronic sinusitis for allergies or repeated colds, delaying proper treatment.
Chronic sinusitis can be caused by several underlying conditions, including allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, chronic inflammation, recurrent infections, or structural blockage of the sinus passages. Environmental irritants, seasonal allergies, and Houston’s climate can also contribute to persistent sinus symptoms. Some patients experience recurrent sinus infections requiring multiple rounds of antibiotics, while others mainly struggle with constant congestion, sinus pressure, or nasal obstruction.
At SCENT Houston, Dr. Madeleine S. Herman evaluates chronic sinusitis using a detailed ENT examination, nasal endoscopy, and when appropriate, an in-office CT scan of the sinuses. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include saline irrigations, allergy treatment, topical medications, oral medications, balloon sinuplasty, or advanced endoscopic sinus surgery. The goal of treatment is to improve sinus drainage, reduce inflammation, restore nasal breathing, and help patients experience lasting relief from chronic sinus symptoms.
At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, patients are evaluated by a board-certified ENT with advanced training in sinus and nasal airway surgery. Dr. Madeleine Herman specializes in treating complex sinus conditions, nasal obstruction, and breathing issues using both traditional and minimally invasive techniques—tailored to each patient’s anatomy and symptoms. Dr. Herman is a Houstonia Magazine Top Doctor 2020-2026, a Houston Chronicle "Best of the Best" 2026 nominee, and has multiple publications in advanced sinonasal disease treatments. You can also relax knowing that every evaluation and surgery is performed by her.