Sinusitis: Symptoms, Management and Treatment Options

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, often caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. It can be acute (lasting less than 4 weeks) or chronic (lasting 12 weeks or more).

Symptoms:

Nasal congestion or blockage, making it hard to breathe through your nose.
Facial pain or pressure, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead (worse on leaning forward).
Thick nasal discharge (often yellow or green).
Reduced sense of smell or taste.
Headache, sore throat, and cough.
Fatigue and feeling generally unwell.

Acute Sinusitis is often triggered by a cold or upper respiratory infection, while chronic sinusitis can be linked to ongoing inflammation, nasal polyps, or other underlying conditions.

Management and Treatment:

Hydration and saline nasal sprays can help ease congestion.
Steam inhalation or a humidifier can relieve sinus pressure.
For bacterial sinusitis, antibiotics may be necessary, but only after a clear diagnosis from your GP or ENT consultant.
Decongestants and pain relievers may offer temporary relief from symptoms.
Steroid nasal sprays are often used for chronic sinusitis to reduce inflammation.

When to See an ENT Specialist: If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, worsen, or if you experience frequent episodes of sinusitis, it's important to seek advice from an ENT consultant. Chronic sinusitis may require further investigations, including nasal endoscopy or CT scans, to determine the cause and guide treatment. Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications.