Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes. Causes facial pain, nasal congestion, thick discharge, and sometimes fever.
From Latin 'sinus' meaning cavity or hollow space, plus Greek '-itis' for inflammation. The term became common in the early 20th century as X-rays allowed doctors to visualize sinus problems for the first time.
Your sinuses aren't just empty spaces - they're lined with the same mucus-producing tissue as your nose and are connected by tiny openings that can easily become blocked. Ancient Egyptian mummies show evidence of chronic sinusitis, proving this condition has plagued humans for millennia.
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