Dr Pathma A/P Letchumanan, Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT), Hospital Seri Botani
Key Takeaways
- Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses that may be caused by viral infections, bacteria, allergies or structural problems, it is not always caused by an infection.
- Most cases improve with self-care, but symptoms lasting longer than 10 days, recurring frequently or continuing beyond 12 weeks should be assessed by a doctor or ENT specialist.
- ENT specialists diagnose sinusitis through your medical history, physical examination and, when necessary, nasal endoscopy or CT imaging to identify the underlying cause.
- Treatment depends on the cause and severity of sinusitis, and may include saline irrigation, medications, allergy management or surgery for selected patients.
Sinusitis occurs when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed, causing swelling, blocked drainage and a build-up of mucus. The four pairs of sinuses – maxillary, frontal, ethmoid and sphenoid, are air-filled spaces around the nose, cheeks, eyes and forehead that help humidify the air and drain mucus into the nasal passages.
When their drainage pathways become blocked, you may experience facial pressure, headaches, nasal congestion and pain.
Sinusitis can be caused by viral infections, allergies, nasal polyps or structural problems such as a deviated septum. It is not always the result of an infection.
Depending on how long symptoms last, sinusitis may be acute, chronic or recurrent, with treatment ranging from medication and self-care to specialist ENT treatment for persistent or severe cases.
4 Types of Sinusitis: Which One Do You Have?
Although sinusitis is often discussed as a single condition, it actually includes several different types. Identifying the underlying type is important because the causes, treatments and expected recovery times can vary considerably.
1. Acute Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis is the most common form.
It usually develops after a viral upper respiratory infection, such as the common cold. In most cases, symptoms improve within 10 days and resolve completely within four weeks.
Typical symptoms include:
- Blocked or congested nose
- Thick nasal discharge
- Facial pressure
- Reduced sense of smell
- Mild headache
Most cases are viral and improve with supportive care rather than antibiotics.
2. Subacute Sinusitis
Subacute sinusitis lasts longer than acute sinusitis but has not yet become chronic.
Symptoms persist for between four and 12 weeks.
This may occur because inflammation takes longer to settle or because underlying issues, such as allergies or persistent nasal swelling, continue to block sinus drainage.
Patients with subacute sinusitis may require further medical assessment to identify contributing factors and optimise treatment.
3. Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis refers to symptoms that persist for more than 12 consecutive weeks, even with treatment.
Unlike acute sinusitis, chronic sinusitis is often driven by ongoing inflammation rather than infection alone.
Common contributing factors include:
- Allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps
- A deviated nasal septum
- Asthma
- Immune system disorders
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Thick mucus
- Facial pressure
- Reduced or lost sense of smell
- Postnasal drip
- Chronic cough
- Fatigue
Because symptoms are long-lasting, an evaluation by an ENT specialist is often recommended.
4. Recurrent Acute Sinusitis
Some people recover completely from sinusitis, only for it to return several times each year.
This is known as recurrent acute sinusitis and is generally defined as four or more separate episodes within a year, with full recovery between episodes.
Recurring sinus infections may be linked to:
- Untreated allergies
- Structural abnormalities inside the nose
- Frequent viral infections
- Smoking
- Environmental irritants
Rather than treating each episode individually, doctors aim to identify and address the underlying cause.
How Do You Know If You Have Sinusitis or Something Else?
One of the biggest challenges with sinusitis is that its symptoms often overlap with other common illnesses.
A blocked nose could be caused by a cold, allergies or influenza. Facial pain might be mistaken for a migraine or dental problem. Headaches and fatigue can occur with many different conditions, making it difficult to know what’s really causing your symptoms.
While it’s impossible to diagnose sinusitis based on symptoms alone, understanding the differences can help you decide when self-care is appropriate and when it’s time to see a doctor.
Sinusitis vs Cold vs Allergies vs Flu vs Migraine
The table below highlights some of the key differences between these commonly confused conditions.
| Feature | Sinusitis | Common Cold | Allergic Rhinitis | Influenza (Flu) | Migraine |
| Cause | Inflammation of the sinuses (viral, bacterial, allergy or structural causes) | Viral infection | Allergic reaction | Influenza virus | Neurological disorder |
| Duration | Usually >10 days (acute) or >12 weeks (chronic) | 7–10 days | Continues while exposed to allergens | 5–7 days | Hours to several days |
| Blocked nose | Common | Common | Very common | Sometimes | Occasionally |
| Thick nasal discharge | Often yellow or green | Usually clear, may become thicker | Usually clear and watery | Sometimes | Rare |
| Facial pain or pressure | Very common | Mild | Rare | Occasionally | Common, but usually one-sided and throbbing |
| Reduced sense of smell | Common | Sometimes | Common | Occasionally | Rare |
| Fever | Sometimes | Mild or absent | No | Common | No |
| Body aches | Mild | Mild | No | Severe | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Sometimes | Common | Very common | Sometimes | No |
| Itchy eyes or nose | Rare | Rare | Very common | Rare | No |
| Symptoms worsen when bending forward | Common | Rare | Rare | Rare | Usually no |
Although this comparison can provide useful clues, remember that symptoms often overlap. If you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms, especially if they are persistent or severe, a medical assessment is recommended.
What Are the Most Common Signs of Sinusitis?
The symptoms of sinusitis vary depending on which sinuses are affected and whether the condition is acute or chronic.
Some people experience mainly nasal congestion, while others notice significant facial pain, headaches or a reduced sense of smell.
Common signs include:
Persistent Blocked or Stuffy Nose
Swelling inside the nose narrows the drainage pathways, making it difficult to breathe through one or both nostrils.
Many patients report that the congestion doesn’t improve even after using over-the-counter cold medications.
Thick Nasal Discharge
Inflamed sinuses often produce thick mucus that may drain through the nose or trickle down the back of the throat.
The mucus may appear:
- Clear
- White
- Yellow
- Green
It’s important to note that green or yellow mucus does not automatically mean you have a bacterial infection or need antibiotics.
Facial Pain or Pressure
This is one of the hallmark symptoms of sinusitis.
Depending on the affected sinus, pain may occur:
- Around the cheeks
- Between the eyes
- Across the forehead
- Around the nose
- Behind the eyes
Many people notice that the discomfort becomes worse when:
- Bending forward
- Lying down
- Suddenly changing head position
Headache
Although many people describe their symptoms as a “sinus headache,” not every headache associated with nasal congestion is caused by sinusitis.
True sinus headaches are often accompanied by:
- Facial tenderness
- Nasal congestion
- Thick nasal discharge
- Pressure over the affected sinus
Migraines are frequently mistaken for sinus headaches because they can also cause facial pain and nasal symptoms.
Reduced or Lost Sense of Smell
Inflammation can prevent odours from reaching the smell receptors inside the nose.
Many patients notice that food also seems less flavourful because smell contributes significantly to taste.
This symptom is especially common in chronic sinusitis.
Postnasal Drip
Instead of draining out through the nostrils, mucus may flow down the back of the throat.
This can lead to:
- Frequent throat clearing
- Sore throat
- Chronic cough
- A sensation of mucus stuck in the throat
Bad Breath
Trapped mucus and postnasal drip can contribute to unpleasant breath, particularly in long-standing sinusitis.
Tooth Pain
Pain from inflamed maxillary sinuses can sometimes be mistaken for a dental problem because these sinuses sit just above the upper back teeth.
Ear Pressure or Fullness
Because the nose, sinuses and ears are closely connected, inflammation may create a feeling of blocked ears or pressure.
Fatigue
Persistent inflammation and poor-quality sleep caused by nasal obstruction can leave people feeling tired, even if the infection itself is mild.
What Causes Sinusitis and Why Does It Keep Coming Back?
Although infections are a common cause of sinusitis, they are far from the only reason people develop inflamed sinuses.
In fact, recurrent or chronic sinusitis is often linked to underlying conditions that continue to block normal sinus drainage.
Identifying and treating the root cause is essential for reducing future episodes.
Viral Infections
Most cases of acute sinusitis begin after a viral upper respiratory infection, such as the common cold.
The virus causes swelling inside the nose, narrowing the tiny drainage openings of the sinuses.
As mucus becomes trapped, pressure builds up and symptoms develop.
Fortunately, viral sinusitis usually improves on its own with supportive care.
Bacterial Infections
Sometimes, bacteria multiply inside mucus that has become trapped within the sinuses.
Bacterial sinusitis is more likely when:
- Symptoms last longer than 10 days without improvement.
- Symptoms improve before worsening again.
- Severe facial pain occurs together with fever and thick nasal discharge.
- Double sickening” (initial improvement from a cold followed by sudden worsening with high fever, increased discharge, or severe facial pain), which is a cardinal indicator of secondary bacterial rhinosinusitis.
Even then, not everyone requires antibiotics, as your doctor will assess your symptoms and overall clinical picture before recommending treatment.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergies are one of the leading causes of recurrent sinus inflammation.
Repeated exposure to allergens causes ongoing swelling of the nasal lining, making it difficult for mucus to drain normally.
Common allergy triggers include:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mould
Managing allergies effectively can significantly reduce recurrent sinusitis.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that develop from chronically inflamed nasal tissue.
Larger polyps may:
- Block airflow
- Obstruct sinus drainage
- Reduce the sense of smell
- Increase the likelihood of chronic sinusitis
ENT specialists often assess for nasal polyps during nasal endoscopy.
A Deviated Nasal Septum
The nasal septum is the wall that separates the two nasal passages.
If it is significantly deviated, airflow may become uneven and sinus drainage impaired.
Some people are born with a deviated septum, while others develop one following nasal trauma.
Smoking and Air Pollution
Cigarette smoke irritates the lining of the nose and damages the tiny cilia responsible for moving mucus out of the sinuses.
Similarly, long-term exposure to:
- Air pollution
- Chemical fumes
- Dust
- Workplace irritants
may increase the risk of chronic sinus inflammation.
Stopping smoking is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term sinus health.
Asthma
Asthma and chronic sinusitis frequently occur together because both involve ongoing inflammation of the airways.
Patients with poorly controlled asthma often have a higher risk of chronic or recurrent sinus disease.
Treating both conditions together usually provides better overall symptom control.
Dental Infections
The roots of the upper back teeth sit very close to the maxillary sinuses.
An untreated dental infection may spread into the adjacent sinus, resulting in a type of sinusitis known as odontogenic sinusitis.
Unilateral maxillary sinusitis resistant to standard therapy often stems from an underlying dental infection, warranting combined ENT and dental evaluation.
If sinus symptoms occur together with tooth pain or after dental treatment, your doctor may investigate a dental cause.
A Weakened Immune System
People with weakened immune systems may experience more frequent or more severe sinus infections.
This may include individuals with:
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Certain immune disorders
- Cancer treatment
- Long-term use of immunosuppressive medications
These patients may require closer medical monitoring and tailored treatment.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist for Sinusitis?
Most cases of sinusitis improve within a few weeks with self-care and appropriate medical treatment. However, persistent, recurrent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying problem that requires assessment by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist.
An ENT specialist has specialised training in diagnosing conditions affecting the nose and sinuses and can determine whether your symptoms are caused by chronic inflammation, allergies, nasal polyps, structural abnormalities or other conditions.
Seeking specialist care early may help prevent complications and reduce the risk of long-term sinus problems.
How Long Is Too Long for Sinusitis?
The duration of your symptoms is one of the most important factors in deciding whether you should seek further medical evaluation.
| Duration of Symptoms | What It May Mean | Recommended Action |
| Less than 10 days | Usually a viral infection or common cold | Self-care and monitor symptoms |
| More than 10 days without improvement | Possible bacterial sinusitis or persistent inflammation | See a doctor for assessment |
| Symptoms improve, then suddenly worsen again | May suggest a secondary bacterial infection | Medical evaluation is recommended |
| More than 12 weeks | Chronic sinusitis | Referral to an ENT specialist is advisable |
| Four or more episodes each year | Recurrent acute sinusitis | Further investigation to identify underlying causes |
If your symptoms continue despite treatment or repeatedly return, an ENT consultation can help identify why your sinuses are not healing properly.
While most cases are not dangerous, some symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Arrange an urgent medical assessment if you develop:
- A high fever that persists or worsens
- Severe facial pain or swelling
- Swelling around one or both eyes
- Double vision or blurred vision
- Difficulty opening the eye
- Severe headache that is different from previous headaches
- Neck stiffness
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Persistent vomiting
- Symptoms that rapidly worsen despite treatment
These signs may indicate that the infection has spread beyond the sinuses or that another serious condition is present.
Can Untreated Sinusitis Become Serious?
In many people, untreated acute sinusitis eventually improves without causing long-term problems.
However, persistent inflammation may lead to:
- Chronic sinusitis
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Nasal polyp formation
- Reduced sense of smell
- Poor sleep quality
- Ongoing fatigue
- Reduced quality of life
Although uncommon, complications can occur if infection spreads beyond the sinuses.
Can Sinusitis Spread to the Eyes?
Yes, but fortunately, this is uncommon.
The ethmoid sinuses sit very close to the eye sockets. In rare cases, an untreated infection may spread into the tissues surrounding the eyes.
Symptoms that require immediate medical attention include:
- Swollen eyelids
- Redness around the eye
- Pain when moving the eye
- Double vision
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty moving the eye
- Bulging of the eye
Because vision can be affected, these symptoms should never be ignored.
Can Sinusitis Affect the Brain?
Although extremely rare, severe sinus infections can spread to structures surrounding the brain.
Potential complications include meningitis, brain abscess, and infection of nearby bones.
Warning signs include severe headache, high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, seizures and changes in consciousness.
Urgent red flags (diplopia, periorbital swelling, severe unilateral headache, stiff neck)
These symptoms represent a medical emergency and require immediate hospital care.
When Is Sinus Surgery Needed?
Surgery is generally considered only when symptoms persist despite appropriate medical treatment or when there is a structural problem preventing normal sinus drainage.
How Do ENT Specialists Diagnose Sinusitis?
An accurate diagnosis is essential because many conditions, including allergies, migraines and even dental problems, can mimic sinusitis.
Rather than relying on symptoms alone, ENT specialists combine your medical history, physical examination and, when necessary, specialised investigations to identify the underlying cause.
Medical History
Your consultation usually begins with a detailed discussion about your symptoms.
Your doctor may ask:
- How long have your symptoms lasted?
- Have they improved or worsened over time?
- How many sinus infections have you had this year?
- Do you have allergies or asthma?
- Have you had previous sinus surgery?
- Are your symptoms seasonal or year-round?
This information helps distinguish acute sinusitis from chronic or recurrent disease.
Physical Examination
Your doctor will examine your nose, face, eyes, throat and neck.
They may gently press over the sinuses to check for tenderness and assess nasal airflow.
Nasal Endoscopy
One of the most valuable diagnostic tools used by ENT specialists is nasal endoscopy.
A thin, flexible or rigid endoscope with a tiny camera is carefully inserted into the nose to provide a detailed view of the nasal passages and sinus openings.
This allows the specialist to identify any swelling, pus or mucus, nasal polyps, structural abnormalities or areas of blockage.
The procedure is usually performed in the clinic and is generally well tolerated.
CT Scan
A CT scan of the sinuses provides detailed images of the sinus cavities and surrounding structures.
It is particularly useful for evaluating:
- Chronic sinusitis
- Recurrent infections
- Structural abnormalities
- Extent of inflammation
- Planning for sinus surgery
MRI Scan
An MRI is not routinely used to diagnose sinusitis.
However, it may be recommended if your doctor needs to evaluate:
- Soft tissue abnormalities
- Tumours
- Rare complications involving the eyes or brain
Allergy Testing
If allergies are suspected to be contributing to recurrent sinusitis, your doctor may recommend allergy testing.
Identifying specific allergens can help guide long-term treatment strategies, such as allergen avoidance or targeted allergy therapy.
Nasal Swabs and Cultures
Routine nasal swabs are not usually necessary for uncomplicated sinusitis.
However, they may be considered in patients with:
- Severe infections
- Recurrent disease
- Weakened immune systems
- Poor response to antibiotics
The results can help identify the responsible organism and guide antibiotic selection.
8 Treatment Options for Sinusitis: Which One Is Right for You?
There is no single treatment that works for every case of sinusitis.
The most appropriate approach depends on:
- Whether the condition is acute or chronic
- Whether the cause is viral, bacterial, allergic or structural
- The severity of symptoms
- The presence of underlying conditions such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum
Rather than simply listing treatments, it’s helpful to understand how each option works and when it is most likely to be beneficial.
1. Saline Nasal Irrigation
Saline irrigation involves rinsing the nasal passages with a sterile saltwater solution.
It can help to:
- Flush out mucus
- Remove allergens and irritants
- Reduce nasal congestion
- Improve sinus drainage
Many people with acute or chronic sinusitis benefit from regular saline irrigation as part of their treatment plan.
2. Intranasal Corticosteroid Sprays
These anti-inflammatory nasal sprays are commonly used for:
- Chronic sinusitis
- Allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps
They help reduce swelling inside the nose, allowing the sinuses to drain more effectively.
Unlike decongestant sprays, they are intended for regular use as directed by your doctor and may take several days to achieve their full effect.
Intranasal corticosteroids are the cornerstone medical therapy for chronic rhinosinusitis (with or without nasal polyps) and require consistent daily use over weeks—not just as-needed usage—to achieve peak therapeutic effect.
3. Oral Medications
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend medications to relieve discomfort and improve drainage.
These may include:
- Pain relievers for headache or facial pain
- Fever-reducing medications when appropriate
- Mucus-thinning agents in selected cases
Your treatment plan will be tailored to your symptoms and overall health.
4. Antibiotics
Many people assume antibiotics are necessary whenever they have sinusitis.
In reality, most cases of acute sinusitis are caused by viruses, which do not respond to antibiotics.
Antibiotics may be considered if:
- Symptoms persist beyond 10 days without improvement.
- Symptoms improve before worsening again.
- There is strong clinical suspicion of a bacterial infection.
Using antibiotics only when appropriate helps reduce unnecessary side effects and the development of antibiotic resistance.
5. Antihistamines
If allergies are contributing to your sinus symptoms, antihistamines may help reduce:
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose
- Runny nose
- Allergy-related inflammation
They are most effective when allergies are the underlying trigger rather than infection.
6. Short-Term Decongestants
Decongestants may provide temporary relief by reducing swelling inside the nasal passages.
However, nasal decongestant sprays should only be used for a short period, as prolonged use can lead to rebound congestion, where symptoms return or worsen after stopping the medication.
Always follow your healthcare professional’s advice regarding their use.
7. Allergy Management
For patients whose sinusitis is driven by allergies, long-term management may include:
- Allergen avoidance
- Intranasal corticosteroid sprays
- Antihistamines
- Saline irrigation
- Immunotherapy in selected cases
Treating the underlying allergy often reduces recurrent sinus inflammation.
8. Surgery Treatment
When medications and other conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgery may provide lasting relief by improving sinus drainage and addressing structural problems.
Procedures such as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), balloon sinuplasty, septoplasty and nasal polyp removal are reserved for carefully selected patients after thorough evaluation.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery from sinusitis depends on its underlying cause, severity and whether it is acute or chronic. While many people recover within a few weeks, others may experience persistent symptoms that require ongoing treatment or specialist care.
The recovery timeline varies from person to person.
| Type of Sinusitis | Typical Recovery Time |
| Viral acute sinusitis | Usually improves within 7–10 days |
| Bacterial sinusitis | Often improves within 1–2 weeks after appropriate treatment |
| Subacute sinusitis | May take 4–12 weeks to fully resolve |
| Chronic sinusitis | Symptoms may persist beyond 12 weeks and often require long-term management |
| After sinus surgery | Initial recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks, while complete healing may take several weeks to a few months |
It’s important to remember that even when symptoms improve, the sinus lining may continue healing. Following your doctor’s advice and completing the recommended treatment plan can reduce the risk of recurrence.
Can Sinusitis Be Prevented?
Not every case of sinusitis can be prevented, but healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk of developing acute infections and recurring inflammation.
1. Manage Allergies Effectively
Allergies are a common trigger for recurrent sinusitis.
If you have allergic rhinitis:
- Identify your allergy triggers.
- Minimise exposure whenever possible.
- Use allergy medications as prescribed.
- Attend regular follow-up appointments if symptoms persist.
Good allergy control helps reduce inflammation inside the nasal passages and improves sinus drainage.
2. Practice Good Hand Hygiene
Many cases of acute sinusitis develop after viral upper respiratory infections.
Simple measures such as:
- Washing your hands regularly
- Avoiding close contact with people who are unwell
- Covering coughs and sneezes
can help lower your risk of catching respiratory infections.
3. Stay Well Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps keep mucus thinner and easier to clear from the nasal passages.
Adequate hydration also supports the normal function of the cilia, the tiny hair-like structures that help move mucus out of the sinuses.
4. Consider Saline Nasal Irrigation
For people who experience recurrent sinus problems or allergies, saline nasal irrigation may help:
- Remove mucus
- Flush away allergens
- Reduce irritation
- Improve sinus drainage
Always use sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water when preparing saline solutions.
5. Avoid Smoking and Second-hand Smoke
Tobacco smoke damages the cilia and irritates the lining of the nose and sinuses.
Stopping smoking can:
- Improve mucus clearance
- Reduce chronic inflammation
- Lower the frequency of sinus infections
- Improve overall respiratory health
6. Reduce Exposure to Irritants
Whenever possible, minimise exposure to:
- Air pollution
- Dust
- Chemical fumes
- Strong fragrances
- Workplace irritants
If exposure cannot be avoided, appropriate protective equipment may be recommended.
7. Manage Underlying Medical Conditions
Conditions such as asthma, allergies and nasal polyps can increase the risk of recurrent sinusitis.
Working with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions may help reduce future flare-ups.
8. Keep Your Vaccinations Up to Date
Seasonal influenza vaccination and other recommended immunisations may reduce the risk of respiratory infections that can trigger sinusitis, particularly for individuals at higher risk of complications.
Sinusitis Myths vs Facts
There is a great deal of misinformation surrounding sinusitis. Understanding the facts can help you make informed decisions about your care.
| Myth | Fact |
| Green mucus always means you need antibiotics. | Not necessarily. Viral infections can also produce yellow or green mucus. Your doctor will assess your symptoms before deciding whether antibiotics are appropriate. |
| Every sinus infection needs antibiotics. | Most acute sinusitis cases are caused by viruses and improve without antibiotics. |
| Sinusitis is always contagious. | The viruses that cause some cases can spread, but sinusitis itself, especially when caused by allergies or structural problems, is not contagious. |
| Weather alone causes sinusitis. | Changes in weather may worsen symptoms for some people, but they do not directly cause sinusitis. |
| Dairy products increase mucus production. | Current evidence does not show that dairy increases mucus production in most people. |
| Flying always makes sinusitis worse. | Flying can increase sinus pressure temporarily, particularly if you are already congested, but it does not permanently worsen sinusitis. |
| Nasal sprays are addictive. | Corticosteroid nasal sprays are not addictive when used as prescribed. However, overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can lead to rebound congestion. |
| Sinus surgery cures sinusitis forever. | Surgery improves sinus drainage and reduces symptoms, but ongoing management may still be needed for allergies or chronic inflammation. |
Take the Next Step Towards Easier Breathing
Persistent sinus symptoms can interfere with your sleep, concentration, work performance and overall quality of life. If symptoms continue despite home treatment or keep returning, a thorough evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and guide the most appropriate treatment.
At Hospital Seri Botani (HSB), our ENT (Otorhinolaryngology) specialists provide comprehensive care for patients with acute, recurrent and chronic sinusitis.
Our services include:
- Comprehensive ENT consultation and assessment
- Nasal endoscopy for detailed examination of the nasal passages and sinuses
- Diagnosis and management of acute and chronic sinusitis
- Assessment of nasal polyps and deviated nasal septum
- Allergy-related sinusitis management
- Medical treatment tailored to your condition
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) for suitable candidates
- Personalised follow-up care to support long-term recovery
Whether your symptoms are due to infection, allergies or structural abnormalities, our multidisciplinary team is committed to helping you breathe more comfortably and improve your quality of life.
FAQs
- Can flying make sinusitis worse?
Yes. Changes in cabin pressure during take-off and landing can increase pressure inside blocked sinuses, leading to temporary facial pain or discomfort. If possible, avoid flying during an active severe sinus infection or seek medical advice beforehand.
- Is exercise safe if I have sinusitis?
Light to moderate exercise is generally safe if your symptoms are mild and you do not have a fever. However, if you feel unwell, have significant facial pain or experience severe congestion, it’s best to rest until you recover.
- Can sinusitis cause neck pain?
It can. Persistent headaches, muscle tension and inflammation may contribute to neck discomfort. However, severe neck stiffness accompanied by fever or confusion requires urgent medical assessment, as it could indicate a serious complication.
- Does sinusitis affect sleep?
Yes. Nasal congestion and postnasal drip can make it difficult to breathe comfortably at night, leading to poor-quality sleep, snoring and daytime fatigue.
- Can children develop chronic sinusitis?
Yes. Although less common than in adults, children can develop chronic sinusitis, especially if they have allergies, enlarged adenoids or frequent respiratory infections. Persistent symptoms should be assessed by a doctor, and referral to a Paediatric specialist may be recommended when appropriate.
- Can pregnancy worsen sinusitis?
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase nasal swelling and congestion, making sinus symptoms feel worse. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.
- Is sinusitis hereditary?
Sinusitis itself is not usually inherited. However, conditions that increase the risk of sinusitis, such as allergies, asthma or certain anatomical features, can run in families.
- Does drinking more water help?
Yes. Staying well hydrated helps keep mucus thinner, making it easier for the sinuses to drain naturally.
- Can dairy increase mucus?
For most people, no. Current evidence does not support the belief that dairy products increase mucus production. However, some individuals may feel that dairy temporarily changes the texture of mucus in the mouth or throat.
- Does weather affect sinusitis?
Changes in temperature, humidity or air pressure may temporarily worsen symptoms in some people, but weather alone does not cause sinusitis.
- Is sinusitis contagious?
Sinusitis itself is not contagious. However, viruses that cause some cases of acute sinusitis can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets.
- Can I swim if I have sinusitis?
If you have an active sinus infection with significant congestion or facial pain, it may be best to avoid swimming until your symptoms improve. Chlorinated water and pressure changes during diving can sometimes worsen discomfort.
