Shih-wen Huang, MD

Abstract: There is solid evidence that a positive association exists between nasal allergy and acute or chronic sinusitis in both adults and children. Patients with perennial allergic rhinitis--especially those with significant sensitivity to molds and/or house dust mites--are particularly susceptible to acute sinusitis. It therefore seems reasonable to assume that controlling rhinitis by controlling allergens in the home environment will minimize recurrences of acute sinusitis. Conversely, many patients with chronic sinusitis also have nasal allergy. Thus, management of nasal allergy should be included in the treatment strategy for chronic sinusitis. (J Respir Dis. 2006; 27(10):435-440)

ABSTRACT: There is solid evidence that a positive association exists between nasal allergy and acute or chronic sinusitis in both adults and children. Patients with perennial allergic rhinitis--especially those with significant sensitivity to molds and/or house dust mites--are particularly susceptible to acute sinusitis. It therefore seems reasonable to assume that controlling rhinitis by controlling the home environment will minimize recurrences of acute sinusitis. Conversely, many patients with chronic sinusitis also have nasal allergy. Thus, management of nasal allergy should be included in the treatment strategy for chronic sinusitis.

If left untreated, sinusitis can cause significant physical symptoms and can negatively affect quality of life by substantially impairing the daily functioning of sufferers. For children, this can mean learning difficulties at school and for adults, a loss of efficiency at work.