There are two types of sinusitis: acute and chronic. The main difference between these is how long they last. Acute sinusitis lasts no more than a week, while chronic sinusitis will last up to eight weeks or longer. Acute sinusitis is generally caused by temporary conditions, such as a cold. Once the cold goes away, the inflammation in the sinuses subsides. Chronic sinusitis is caused by more lasting conditions, such as allergies or asthma. Besides the difference in length and causes, acute and chronic sinusitis both produce very similar symptoms.