Updated July 2025
A fungus can live in almost any place on Earth.
This means no matter where you go, you’ll encounter fungi like mold, yeast or mildew.
Most of the time, if you’re relatively healthy, these have minimal effects on your sinuses. But in other cases – especially among those who are immunosuppressed — it can cause fungal sinus infection symptoms. Depending upon the type of fungal sinusitis, the situation can become quite inconvenient.
That’s why, at Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy, we’ve paved the way for comprehensive treatment through our Sinus and Allergy Center. We’re able to provide extensive relief for your ongoing sinus issues, whether you’re plagued by spring allergies or you need more intensive treatment. We invite you to schedule an appointment with us today to get the help you need.
In this article, we’ll go in-depth into one particularly sinus issue: fungal sinusitis. We’ll take a closer look at its causes, symptoms and treatment—starting with five things you should know about this illness.
What Is Fungal Sinusitis?
This is a sinus infection caused by a fungus. This makes it different from sinusitis caused by pollen and ragweed. Those who have compromised immune systems are at greater risk for developing fungal sinus infection symptoms. Immune systems may be compromised due to conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or cancer treatment.
There is a rare type of invasive fungal sinusitis that can be extremely serious. Fortunately, this kind of sinusitis is very uncommon.
5 Important Things to Know About Fungal Sinusitis
1. Fungal Sinus Infection Symptoms
You’ll find that fungal sinus infection symptoms are very similar to those of “regular” sinus infections. These include:
- Facial pressure
- Congestion
- Facial pain
- Loss of smell
- A foul nasal odor
- Sinus headache
- Fever
If you are having these fungal sinus infection symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with one of our expert ENTs in Raleigh as soon as possible.
2. The Number of Fungal Sinus Infections Is Increasing
Over the last decade, there’s been a steady increase in the number of patients diagnosed with fungal sinus infections, according to information from the Cleveland Clinic.
Researchers believe this is due to:
- The increasing number of people diagnosed with a disease that compromises their immune system.
- The fact that antibiotics are prescribed more often.
- The frequency with which immunosuppressant drugs have been administered.
3. Treatment May Include Surgery
We evaluate each case on an individual basis. The treatment for fungal sinusitis may vary slightly.
However, some cases will require sinus surgery. At Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy we specialize in functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
Using this minimally invasive technique, we eliminate the need for making large incisions on your face or in your mouth. The fungal infection is removed while other tissues are not damaged.
Depending upon the severity of the infection, antifungal medicines may be needed even after surgery.
4. There Are Different Classifications For Fungal Sinusitis
There are many types of fungal sinusitis, and they are generally classified as either invasive or noninvasive. Noninvasive is the most common, and it primarily only affects the sinuses and nasal passages.
Types of noninvasive fungal sinusitis include:
- Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis
- Mycetoma (a fungal ball that blocks the sinuses)
- Saprophytic fungal sinusitis
5. Fungal Sinus Infections Can—and Often Do– Return
It’s not unusual for fungal sinusitis to return, in which case you may need more treatment or even additional surgery to gently remove the fungus.
If you have symptoms of a sinus infection that won’t go away (chronic sinusitis) contact one of our local ENTs for an appointment. We can help you evaluate your overall risk of fungal sinusitis and determine a tailored treatment plan just for you.
Our Sinus Center in Raleigh Has the Treatment You Need and the Compassionate Care You Deserve
Our skilled surgeons are experts at treating fungal sinusitis. In addition, they also treat conditions such as nasal valve collapse, nasal polyps and even sleep apnea.
To schedule an appointment, contact us today.
But not all bacteria and fungi are harmful. Let’s take a brief look at some fascinating facts about our microbiome.
What Is the Microbiome? These Facts Will Blow Your Mind
If you have never heard this term, pay attention! This refers to the bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc. that live on and in our body, including our sinuses. They are essential for a normal, healthy body. These “germs” are the good guys!
Here are some fun facts about our microbiome:
- There are about ten trillion (10^13 ) cells that make up the human body.
- On and in that human body, there are:
- About a trillion (10^12) bacterial cells
- One hundred quintillion (10^20) viruses
- About ten billion (10^10) fungal cells
If you add up the genetic material (DNA) from these little bugs, it amounts to about 100 times the genetic material (DNA) of the human body they live on/in! This means your body is actually more germ than human!
Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy: Let Our Sinus Experts Provide Long-lasting Relief
Our team of medical professionals specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of sinus conditions—from mild discomfort to complex, recurring infections.
Through the latest medical and surgical techniques, we provide the long-lasting relief you need to maintain your quality of life. Simply contact us for an appointment.
Key Takeaways:
- Fungi are found everywhere, and while typically harmless, they can cause sinus infections in immunocompromised individuals.
- Fungal sinusitis is different from allergies and bacterial infections, and it may require specialized medical treatment.
Symptoms of fungal sinus infections often mirror those of regular sinusitis, including congestion, facial pain, and loss of smell. - Cases of fungal sinusitis have increased in recent years due to higher rates of immune-compromising conditions and medication use.
- Some fungal sinus infections may require surgery, such as minimally invasive endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
- Fungal sinusitis is categorized as either invasive or noninvasive, with noninvasive types being more common.
- Common noninvasive types include allergic fungal rhinosinusitis, fungal balls (mycetomas), and saprophytic fungal sinusitis.
- Fungal sinus infections often return, and follow-up care or repeat surgery may be necessary for long-term relief.
- The human microbiome includes beneficial fungi and bacteria that are essential for maintaining sinus and overall health.
- Our bodies contain more microbial DNA than human DNA, highlighting the importance of a balanced and healthy microbiome.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic, “Healthy Sinuses,” https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonallergic-rhinitis/multimedia/img-20453026
National Institute of Health, “Fungus Balls of the Paranasal Sinuses,” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17361410/