What tests finally clarified my chronic sinusitis and guided treatment choices?

[Eleanor.L]

I've been battling what my doctor calls chronic sinusitis for nearly three months now, with constant facial pressure, congestion, and fatigue that antibiotics and steroid sprays haven't been able to clear. The ENT specialist I saw mentioned the possibility of a CT scan and even surgery if it's a structural issue, but I'm hesitant to jump to such invasive steps without exploring all other sinusitis treatment options first. I'm starting to suspect environmental allergies or even a fungal component might be at play, but I'm not sure how to effectively advocate for more comprehensive testing. For others who have dealt with persistent sinus infections, what diagnostic path finally provided answers for you? Did you find success with specific non-surgical interventions like long-term nasal irrigation, allergy management, or dietary changes, and how did you determine when it was time to seriously consider surgical options like a balloon sinuplasty?