Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus linings — the air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes — usually triggered by a viral infection, allergy, or a blockage that stops them draining. Most acute cases settle within two to three weeks; symptoms lasting beyond twelve weeks are considered chronic and deserve an ENT assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Marwan Alhalalmeh, ENT Specialist · Last reviewed: 2026-06-17
Overview
Sinusitis is inflammation of the lining of the sinuses — the air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes. It is usually triggered by a viral infection, allergy, or a blockage that stops the sinuses draining normally. Acute sinusitis lasts a few weeks and often follows a cold; chronic sinusitis lasts twelve weeks or longer and may need an endoscopic examination to find the cause. An ENT specialist can confirm the diagnosis, identify contributing factors such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, and tailor treatment to stop it returning.
Symptoms
- Facial pain, pressure or fullness around the cheeks, eyes or forehead
- A blocked nose and difficulty breathing through the nose
- Thick nasal discharge or post-nasal drip
- A reduced sense of smell or taste
- Headache that worsens when bending forward
- Cough, bad breath or fatigue
When to see a doctor
- Symptoms last longer than ten days without improving
- Symptoms ease and then return worse than before
- High fever, severe facial pain, or swelling around the eyes
- Repeated episodes several times a year
- Sinus symptoms that keep returning after antibiotics
Treatment options
- Accurate diagnosis with nasal endoscopy when needed
- Medical treatment: saline rinses, nasal sprays and medication
- Allergy assessment and management
- Treating underlying causes such as a deviated septum or polyps
- Endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for selected chronic or recurrent cases
Common questions
How long does sinusitis last?
Acute sinusitis usually settles within two to three weeks. When symptoms persist beyond twelve weeks it is considered chronic and should be assessed by an ENT specialist.
Do I need antibiotics for sinusitis?
Most cases are viral and improve without antibiotics. They only help when a bacterial infection is likely, which your doctor can judge from your symptoms and examination.
When is sinus surgery needed?
Surgery is considered only when symptoms are chronic or keep returning despite medical treatment, often because of a structural blockage. Endoscopic sinus surgery opens the natural drainage pathways and is usually a day-case procedure.
What is the difference between a cold and sinusitis?
A cold is a viral infection that usually peaks and fades within about a week. Sinusitis can follow a cold but tends to last longer, with facial pain or pressure, a blocked nose, and thick discharge that persist or worsen after the cold should have settled.
How can I relieve sinus symptoms at home?
Saline rinses or sprays, steam inhalation, warm compresses over the face, staying well hydrated, and rest all help ease milder sinusitis. If symptoms last beyond ten days, keep returning, or come with a high fever or swelling around the eyes, see an ENT specialist.
Further reading
General information about this topic from an independent health authority:
NHSIf sinus symptoms are affecting your daily life, Dr. Marwan can assess the cause and recommend the right treatment.
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