Sinusitis -Have you ever had a cold that lasted more than seven days? If you have, chances are you may have had sinusitis. Test you knowledge about this disorder by taking he following quiz.

1. Sinusitis is a disease of the sinuses.

TRUE - Sinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal sinuses - the hollow cavities within the cheekbones and around and behind the eyes. The inflammation is generally a result of inadequate draining due to allergy, infection or obstruction.

2. The sinuses warm the air in the nose cavities.

TRUE - The primary function of the sinuses is to warm, moisten and filter the air in the nasal cavity. They also play a role in our ability to vocalize certain sounds.

3. Symptoms and side affects associated with sinusitis are limited to chronic congestion, headaches and postnasal drip.

FALSE - In addition to these symptoms, sinusitis can also cause green or gray nasal discharge, pressure in the face, toothaches, cough, constant tiredness, and occasionally, a fever.

4. Sinusitis is related to other allergic disorders such as asthma and allergies.

TRUE - Allergies can trigger inflammation of the sinuses and nasal mucous linings. This inflammation prevents the sinus cavity from cleaning out bacteria, and increases the chances of developing secondary bacterial sinusitis. Sinusitis affects asthma as well. Studies have shown that about 75% of severe asthmatics also have sinusitis.

5. Sinusitis usually goes away on its own in two weeks.

FALSE - The typical duration of sinusitis can last weeks, months and even years. It is important to see your allergist in order to develop an individualized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.

6. Sinusitis affects about 10 million Americans.

FALSE - Sinusitis develops in approximately 31 million Americans each year and results in an average of four missed days of work each year.

7. Sinusitis may either be an acute or a chronic illness.

TRUE - There are two types of sinusitis: acute sinusitis, which is often caused by a bacterial infection and usually develops as a complication five to ten days after the first symptoms of a viral respiratory infection such as the common cold; and chronic sinusitis, which also may be caused by bacterial infection, but is more often a chronic inflammatory disorder similar to bronchial asthma.

For more information on sinusitis please see our What is Sinusitis? page. To locate a physician in your area, see our Physicians Locator.