Chronic Sinusitis: Could It Be Related to Immunodeficiency?

Chronic sinusitis is a condition that causes inflammation and swelling in your sinuses. Its symptoms typically last for at least 12 weeks, even with treatment. You might feel constantly congested, your head may feel heavy, your sleep may suffer, and over-the-counter medications might offer only temporary relief, if any. 

There are several causes behind chronic sinusitis. For some, it’s allergies. For others, nasal polyps or structural issues in the sinuses can be to blame. The bottom line is chronic sinus infections can indicate that your immune system isn’t working the way it should. 

Primary immunodeficiencies can lead to recurring infections, especially in your sinuses, lungs, and ears. Frequent or chronic sinusitis is one of the most common early warning signs of a weakened immune system. However, to ascertain whether your chronic sinusitis is related to immunodeficiency, you need specialized testing and expert insight.

At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA in San Antonio and Schertz, Texas, our lead allergist, Dr. Patricia Gomez-Dinger, is an expert at recognizing patterns that might indicate an immune problem and ordering the right tests to get answers. Here, she explains what chronic sinusitis is, how it can be linked to immune problems and why getting the right diagnosis is the first step to getting lasting treatment.

How immunodeficiency contributes to chronic sinusitis

Your sinuses are part of your respiratory system and are constantly exposed to airborne irritants, bacteria, and viruses. A healthy immune system recognizes and fights off these invaders efficiently. 

But if your immune system is compromised due to a primary immunodeficiency or another underlying condition, your body may not respond effectively, leading to repeated or lingering infections.

Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are a group of disorders that affect how the immune system works. Many people with a PID are unaware that they have one. Some of the most common immunodeficiencies linked to chronic sinusitis include:

• Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)
• Selective IgA deficiency
• Specific antibody deficiency

These aren’t rare conditions. CVID, for example, is one of the most commonly diagnosed primary immunodeficiencies in adults. 

Why it’s so important to get a proper diagnosis

If your chronic sinusitis is tied to an immune problem, you need specific treatment. More antibiotics aren’t the answer, and repeated antibiotic use without proper evaluation can do more harm than good over time. For patients with immunodeficiency, treatments may include:

• Immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IVIG or subcutaneous)
• Preventive antibiotics or other immune-supporting medications
• Customized allergy management plans
• Environmental control and sinus care strategies

The goal is to support your immune system so that your body can protect itself more effectively. This kind of care can significantly reduce the frequency of infections, improve energy levels, and help you get control over your health.

What to expect 

When you come to us with chronic sinus concerns, we begin with a full evaluation. Dr. Gomez-Dinger learns about your history of infections, your response to past treatments, and any other symptoms you’ve been experiencing, even ones that seem unrelated. 

She then performs diagnostic testing that may include sinus imaging, allergy testing, and immune function blood work. If you’re diagnosed with immunodeficiency, she works with you to develop a long-term care plan that fits your lifestyle and supports your overall health. 

Chronic sinusitis could be a sign that your immune system isn’t doing its job as well as it should be. At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA, we specialize in uncovering the root causes of chronic conditions like sinusitis. Whether it’s allergy-related, immune-related, or something else entirely, we’ll help you figure it out and create a treatment plan that works. 

Schedule an appointment with us online or call your nearest office today.