Overview
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus lining that can be acute (often after a flu) or chronic (symptoms =12 weeks). It commonly presents with facial pressure, nasal blockage, thick nasal discharge, and reduced smell.
Common symptoms
- Facial pain/pressure, headache around cheeks/forehead
- Blocked or stuffy nose, post-nasal drip
- Thick yellow/green mucus, reduced sense of smell
- Tooth pain or ear pressure
When to see an ENT
- Symptoms >10 days or keep recurring
- High fever, severe facial pain or swelling
- Vision changes, double vision, or severe headache
- Symptoms lasting =12 weeks (possible chronic sinusitis)
What we do
- Focused history and nasal endoscopy to identify inflammation, polyps, or structural issues
- Allergy assessment when indicated
- Clear treatment plan and prevention advice
Tests (when appropriate)
- Nasal endoscopy in clinic
- CT scan of sinuses for chronic/recurrent cases or surgery planning
Treatment options
- Saline rinses, intranasal steroid sprays, short course of medicines as indicated
- Allergy control and trigger management
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) for selected chronic/polyp cases not responding to medicine