ENT · Ear, nose and throat

Sinusitis

Understand sinus inflammation, its duration and when ENT assessment is needed.

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Understand

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus lining that obstructs mucus drainage into the nose.

Facial pain or pressure, blocked or runny nose, coloured mucus, reduced smell, fever, cough or toothache may occur.

It often follows a viral infection; allergy, polyps or anatomy can favour prolonged disease.

Symptoms and nasal examination are often enough; duration and one-sided symptoms guide referral.

Nasal endoscopy, CT or allergy tests are reserved for chronic, recurrent or atypical cases or surgery planning.

Acute sinusitis often clears within four weeks; symptoms beyond twelve weeks are considered chronic.

Rest, fluids, saline rinses and pain relief help; nasal steroids, allergy treatment, rare antibiotics or surgery depend on the case.

Seek advice if symptoms persist over three weeks, recur, continue despite treatment or remain one-sided.

Severe illness, increasing pain, swelling around an eye, visual change, neck stiffness or neurological symptoms need urgent help.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.