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Jonathan Hughes | Hemel Hempstead

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses – small, air-filled spaces behind the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes. When the lining of the sinuses becomes swollen, mucus cannot drain properly, leading to a blocked, heavy feeling in the face. Sinusitis may be acute, lasting a few days to several weeks, or chronic, where symptoms persist for more than twelve weeks and often recur.

Causes of Sinusitis

Acute sinusitis usually develops after a viral infection such as a cold or flu. In some cases, a bacterial infection follows, causing symptoms to last longer or worsen. Allergies, dental infections, or irritants like smoke and pollution can also trigger sinus inflammation. Chronic sinusitis is often linked to ongoing conditions such as nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or persistent allergies. These issues can block normal drainage and make the sinuses more prone to infection.

Symptoms of Sinusitis

Common symptoms include a blocked or stuffy nose, thick nasal discharge, pressure or pain in the face (particularly around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead), reduced sense of smell, and sometimes fever, cough, or tiredness. In chronic sinusitis, symptoms are often less severe but last much longer, with ongoing congestion, nasal discharge, and facial discomfort.

Treatment Options

Most cases of acute sinusitis improve within two to three weeks with simple self-care such as rest, fluids, steam inhalation, and saline rinses. Pain relief and short courses of decongestants may also help. If symptoms are severe or persistent, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Chronic sinusitis usually needs more targeted treatment, which may include steroid sprays or tablets to reduce inflammation, long-term management of allergies, or, in some cases, surgery to improve drainage and remove obstructions such as nasal polyps. An ENT specialist may carry out a nasal endoscopy or CT scan to assess the sinuses in more detail and recommend the best treatment plan.

If you think you’re having sinusitis problems, get in touch with your ENT specialist in London to book a consultation today!
020 3897 0667

What is the difference between acute and chronic sinusitis?
Acute sinusitis comes on suddenly, often after a cold, and usually lasts for up to four weeks. Chronic sinusitis lasts for twelve weeks or longer and often keeps coming back.

Do I always need antibiotics for sinusitis?
Not necessarily. Most cases of acute sinusitis are viral and do not need antibiotics. They are only prescribed when bacterial infection is suspected or when symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Can allergies cause sinusitis?
Yes. Allergies can cause swelling inside the nose, which blocks drainage from the sinuses and increases the risk of developing sinusitis.

When should I see a specialist?
If sinus symptoms persist for more than three months, keep recurring, or are severe and affecting your quality of life, it is worth seeing an ENT specialist. You should also seek urgent help if you develop swelling around the eyes, double vision, or severe headaches.

What treatments are available if medication doesn’t work?
For chronic sinusitis that does not respond to sprays or tablets, surgery may be recommended. This usually involves a minimally invasive procedure called endoscopic sinus surgery, which opens the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses and helps prevent further infections.