When is sinusitis considered chronic?

Chronic sinusitis is defined by a duration of symptoms that persist for 12 weeks or longer. This timeframe is significant because it differentiates chronic sinusitis from acute sinusitis, which typically lasts less than 4 weeks. The 12-week mark is essential in the clinical setting as it indicates a shift from an acute inflammatory response in the sinuses to a more persistent condition that may involve structural changes, ongoing inflammation, and possibly infection that requires a different approach to management and treatment. Understanding this distinction is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning in patients presenting with sinus symptoms.