If you’ve ever had a stubborn sinus ache that just won’t clear up, you might be looking at a fungal infection instead of the usual bacterial culprits. Fungal sinusitis happens when mold spores settle in the nasal passages and start to grow. It’s less common than regular sinus infections, but it can cause long‑lasting congestion, facial pressure, and a feeling of stuffiness that doesn’t improve with typical decongestants.
The first clue is often a sinus problem that lingers for weeks or months. You might notice thick, discolored mucus that smells musty, repeated nosebleeds, or a dull ache around the eyes and cheeks. Some people also get a “sea‑food” taste in their mouth or watery eyes that don’t respond to allergy meds. If you’ve had multiple courses of antibiotics without relief, that’s another red flag that a fungus could be the troublemaker.
Diagnosing fungal sinusitis usually starts with a quick exam, but the real confirmation comes from imaging and lab tests. A CT scan will show any dense spots or blockages in the sinuses that look different from normal inflammation. Doctors may also take a small tissue sample during a nasal endoscopy to send to a lab, where they can identify the exact type of fungus. Knowing the species matters because some molds need different treatment approaches.Once the diagnosis is clear, treatment moves into two main tracks: medication and, if needed, surgery. Antifungal pills or nasal sprays work well for the non‑invasive forms, especially allergic fungal sinusitis, where the immune system overreacts to the spores. In more severe cases where the fungus forms a solid mass, surgeons may need to remove the growth to restore airflow and stop the infection from spreading.
Recovery doesn’t end with medicine or an operation. Keeping your nasal passages dry and clean helps prevent a return. Using saline rinses a few times a day can flush out lingering spores, and reducing indoor humidity lowers the chances of mold buildup at home. If you have a history of allergies, staying on your regular antihistamines can also keep the immune response in check.
Bottom line: fungal sinusitis can feel like a never‑ending cold, but with the right diagnosis and targeted treatment, you can break the cycle. Notice persistent symptoms? Talk to a healthcare provider about a CT scan or endoscopic exam—you’ll get the right plan faster than guessing with over‑the‑counter meds.
