What symptom is characteristic of both acute and chronic rhinosinusitis?

• A. Fever and chills
• B. Nasal obstruction or congestion
• C. Severe head pain
• D. Thick green nasal discharge

Answer: (B)

Nasal obstruction or congestion is a key symptom shared by both acute and chronic rhinosinusitis. In acute rhinosinusitis, which is often caused by infections, patients frequently experience blockage or difficulty breathing through the nose due to inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages. This can occur alongside other symptoms such as facial pain, fever, or discharge.

In chronic rhinosinusitis, which lasts for an extended period (usually more than 12 weeks), nasal obstruction or congestion remains a prominent feature. This can stem from ongoing inflammation or anatomical issues that prevent proper drainage of the sinuses, resulting in a persistent blockage.

The reason nasal obstruction or congestion is characteristic of both conditions is that the underlying pathophysiology involves inflammation of the nasal and sinus mucosa, leading to swelling and increased mucus production that contributes to these symptoms. This differentiation in acute versus chronic forms lies more in duration and potential causative factors rather than the basic symptom of nasal obstruction.