The diagnosis of acute sinus problems can be challenging as it is not always clear if infection (bacterial) is present or if the common cold (viral) is to blame.
A healthcare provider diagnoses sinusitis after obtaining a complete medical history and physical examination. The proper diagnosis is based on the patient's symptom history and careful inspection of the nasal tissues. Nasal endoscopy, looking into the nose with a special camera and telescope, may be performed to help confirm the diagnosis. A CT scan of the sinuses is typically not required for acute sinusitis but may be very important in the treatment of patients with chronic sinusitis.
This information has been approved by Todd Kingdom, MD (July 2006).
