Sinusitis
NOSE / SINUSITIS
Relief for sinus infections and long term sinus problems from consultant ENT surgeon Dr Nurhani Yasmin Abdul Rahman, whose special interest is nose and sinus disease.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, the air spaces around the nose. A short episode often follows a cold. When symptoms last more than 12 weeks it is called chronic sinusitis, and it usually needs a specialist assessment to find out why it keeps going.
Symptoms
- Blocked or stuffy nose
- Facial pressure or facial pain around the cheeks, eyes or forehead
- Thick nasal discharge
- Post nasal drip (mucus running down the back of the throat)
- Reduced or lost sense of smell
- Headache, tiredness or bad breath
Common causes
- Colds and viral infections
- Nose allergies
- Nasal polyps
- A deviated septum blocking sinus drainage
- Dental infections affecting the cheek sinuses
How Dr Yasmin assesses and treats sinusitis
Dr Yasmin examines the inside of the nose with a nasal endoscopy, a quick test done in clinic with a numbing spray. A CT scan of the sinuses may be arranged for long term symptoms. Most patients improve with the right combination of nasal sprays, saline rinses and medicine, used correctly. When symptoms continue despite medical treatment, she discusses endoscopic sinus surgery.
When to see an ENT specialist
- Sinus symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks
- Repeated sinus infections in a year
- Loss of smell
- Symptoms on one side only
- Swelling around the eye or severe headache: seek urgent care
FAQs
Is sinusitis the same as a cold?
No. A cold usually clears in 7 to 10 days. Sinusitis lasts longer and often causes facial pressure and thick discharge.
Do I need antibiotics for sinusitis?
Not always. Many cases are viral or inflammatory and improve with sprays and rinses. Dr Yasmin advises when antibiotics are needed.
Can chronic sinusitis be cured?
Most people can control it well with the right treatment, and surgery helps those who do not improve with medicine.