You've been feeling under the weather lately but can't quite put your finger on what's wrong. Could it be sinusitis? This common condition affects many each year, and it's often mistaken for a simple cold. Knowing the signs could save you a lot of discomfort and get you on the path to recovery sooner. Overview of Sinusitis Sinusitis can be acute or chronic, and it's critical to know the signs. Acute sinusitis typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain.