Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) may appear abruptly. It can begin as a nonspecific upper respiratory infection or acute, short-term inflammation of the sinuses that fails to clear up. From there, it may develop slowly, but gradually over months or years. Occasionally, the first sign of CRS may be the unexpected showing of a “danger sign,” like severe headaches, facial pain, or visual changes.
Additionally, some people with CRS have abnormal growth of tissue inside their noses or sinuses called nasal polyps (CRS with nasal polyps or CRSwNP). The polyps can become large, numerous, and clog the sinuses. If nasal polyps are not involved, then the condition is called CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP).
Which Demographic is Most at Risk?
Data suggests that prevalence of CRSsNP is higher in women than men and that prevalence also varies with age. Although all age ranges can be impacted, there is a decline in incidences among people who are 65 and older. Prevalence by race has not yet been investigated; however, Black and African-American patients tend to have poorer outcomes due to the lack of health equity and insurance.
Quality of Life:
CRS can have significant adverse effects on an individual’s quality of life. Data suggests that some patients with CRS may have a considerably lower quality-of-life social functioning as well as decreased physical and overall health in comparison to the general population.
Economic Impact:
CRS is a chronic disorder, and there may be considerable economic burden over time due to the cost diagnostic tests, medical treatments and surgical therapies. Additionally, patients with CRS may experience lost and reduced school and work productivity, and negative effects to their physical and emotional health.
If you think you or a loved one is being impacted by CRS (either with or without nasal polyps), please seek the advice of a qualified medical professional. Some options include:
- Allergists
- Rhinology Specialists
- Otolaryngologists
- Primary Care Doctors
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References
- Coren J. Patient education: Chronic rhinosinusitis (Beyond the Basics). UpToDate. Mar 2023. Accessed Sep 18, 2023.
- Rank M. and Holbrook E. Chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis: Management and prognosis. UpToDate. Sep 2023. Accessed Sep 18, 2023.
- Cho. S, et al. Chronic Rhinosinusitis Without Nasal Polyps. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2016; 4(4): 575–582.
- Mahdavinia M, et al. African American Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis Have a Distinct Phenotype of Polyposis Associated with Increased Asthma Hospitalization. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2016; 4: 658-664.e1.
- Soler Z, et al. Chronic rhinosinusitis, race, and ethnicity Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2012; 26(2): 110-6.
- Konsur E, et al. Race and ethnicity define disparate clinical outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2022; 129(6): 737-741.
- Chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps: clinical characteristics and comorbid diseases. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology. Oct 2018. Accessed Sep 18, 2023.
- Gosepath J and Pfaar O. Chronic Rhinosinusitis with and without Nasal Polyps. Ento Key – Fastest Otolaryngology & Ophthalmology Insight Engine. Jun 2020. Accessed Sep 18, 2023.
