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Back FAQs Our FAQs address detailed questions, especially for those with long-standing conditions. If you still have unanswered questions after reviewing this portal, feel free to contact our team at contact@euforea.org. Please note that we cannot answer personal inquiries.   About CRS What is chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS)? Inflammation is the body’s natural response to germs, irritants, and foreign substances, such as chemicals. When inflammation affects the lining inside the nose and spreads to the sinuses, it is called rhinosinusitis. The sinuses are air-filled spaces around the nose. Common symptoms of rhinosinusitis include nasal congestion, reduced or lost sense of smell, facial pain or pressure, and mucus that either drips from the nose or drains down the back of the throat. When these symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks, it is classified as Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS). CRS can occur with or without nasal polyps—soft, non-cancerous growths in the nose or sinuses that may cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities. The exact reason why some individuals with CRS develop nasal polyps while others do not is still unknown. Healthcare professionals often refer to CRS with nasal polyps as Nasal Polyp Syndrome. Is CRS inherited? Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component to the condition. However, researchers have also observed CRS without nasal polyps in family members, indicating that hereditary factors play a role in both forms of the disease. Studies involving identical twins have shown that both siblings may not necessarily develop nasal polyps, highlighting the significant role of environmental factors alongside genetic predisposition. This emphasizes that both inherited traits and external influences contribute to the development of CRS. Why do I have sinuses? Your sinuses are air-filled cavities inside the bones of your face and skull. A thin, moist layer of mucus lines their inner surface. Together with the nose, the sinuses play a crucial role in filtering, warming, and humidifying the air we breathe. This process helps protect the lungs from harmful particles and irritants. In addition to respiratory functions, the sinuses also contribute to the resonance of your voice, influencing how you sound when speaking. Furthermore, the sinuses act as a cushion, absorbing energy to protect the brain in the event of an accident. How many people have CRS? Around 10% of people have chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS)—roughly the same as the entire population of Spain. In certain regions of Europe, the prevalence of CRS is even higher, highlighting the widespread impact of this condition across the continent. What is the difference between chronic sinusitis and chronic rhinosinusitis? When the inner lining of your nose becomes inflamed, and the inflammation spreads to the nearby sinuses, you develop rhinosinusitis. People often use the terms sinusitis and rhinosinusitis interchangeably. However, rhinosinusitis more accurately describes a condition that affects both the nose and the sinuses. Despite this distinction, people commonly use both terms to describe the same underlying condition. Does CRS progress when I get older? Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) can evolve as you age. In children, CRS is typically milder, and nasal polyps (soft, painless growths in the nose or sinuses) are rare unless the child has a condition like cystic fibrosis. In adults, CRS with nasal polyps can worsen if left untreated. Over time, polyps can grow larger, pressing against the bones in the face and sometimes altering their appearance. Another sign that CRS may be worsening is the development of asthma-like symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing), coughing, or coughing up mucus from the chest. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your doctor for further guidance. Can CRS be cured? Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) usually has no cure, but the right treatment can help you manage and control your symptoms. The condition involves long-term inflammation of the sinuses, which can be challenging to treat. The causes of this inflammation can vary, including infections, allergies, structural abnormalities in the nose, or immune system issues. Fortunately, many people experience less severe symptoms as they reach the age of 60. With the right care and treatment, you can often control CRS effectively and improve your quality of life.   Causes of CRS What causes CRS? Although researchers do not yet fully understand the exact cause of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), they believe that a combination of factors contributes to its development. This includes an interaction between personal traits, such as genetics, and environmental factors like air pollution, cigarette smoke, and allergens. These factors together trigger long-lasting inflammation in the sinuses and nasal cavity, leading to the symptoms associated with CRS. Understanding this interaction is key to better managing and treating the condition. Is CRS caused by bacteria or viruses? Inflammation drives chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Various factors, including bacterial and viral infections, smoking, air pollution, and allergens, can trigger or worsen this inflammation. This inflammation leads to thickening of the inner lining of the nose and sinuses, the increasing of mucus production, and sometimes the formation of polyps, which contribute to CRS symptoms. It’s important to note that CRS is not simply an “infection that won’t go away.” Many bacteria and fungi naturally reside in our sinuses, even in people who do not have sinus disease. While bacteria and viruses may contribute to inflammation, killing them with antibiotics does not cure CRS. Instead, a combination of factors, including environmental influences and genetic predisposition, likely causes the condition. Together, these factors lead to the persistent inflammation that characterises CRS. Is CRS caused by my allergy? Researchers do not yet fully understand the exact role of allergies in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, allergies are more common in people with CRS than in the general population. This is especially true for year-round allergies, such as allergies to moulds or house dust mites. Poorly controlled allergies can worsen CRS symptoms, and people with allergies often experience more severe and recurring CRS symptoms. Furthermore, allergies frequently co-exist with asthma, adding another layer of complexity to managing CRS. Understanding the relationship between allergies, asthma,