What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones around the nose, forehead, and cheeks that are normally filled with air. When they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.
Sinusitis often follows a common cold and is very common in Sri Lanka, especially during seasonal weather changes and rainy periods.
Types of Sinusitis
| Type | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Sinusitis | Up to 4 weeks | Most common. Usually starts as a cold that turns into a bacterial infection. |
| Subacute Sinusitis | 4 to 12 weeks | Symptoms persist longer than a typical cold. |
| Chronic Sinusitis | More than 12 weeks | Long-lasting inflammation. May need specialist referral. |
| Recurrent Sinusitis | 4+ episodes/year | Multiple episodes of acute sinusitis in one year. |
Common Symptoms
Primary Symptoms
- Facial pain/pressure (forehead, cheeks, around eyes)
- Blocked or stuffy nose
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Reduced sense of smell
- Headache (worse when bending forward)
Other Symptoms
- Post-nasal drip (mucus dripping down throat)
- Cough (especially at night)
- Ear pressure or fullness
- Tooth pain (upper teeth)
- Fatigue and general unwell feeling
- Bad breath
Common Causes
- Viral infection (most common) - following a common cold
- Bacterial infection - when a viral sinusitis doesn't improve or worsens after 7-10 days
- Allergies - allergic rhinitis causing sinus swelling
- Nasal polyps - tissue growths that block sinus drainage
- Deviated nasal septum - a crooked wall between the nostrils
- Environmental irritants - dust, pollution, cigarette smoke
How to Manage Sinusitis at Home
Home Care Tips
- Steam inhalation: Breathe in steam from hot water 2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes. This is the most effective home remedy for sinus relief.
- Warm compress: Place a warm, damp towel over your face (nose, cheeks, forehead area) to relieve pressure and pain.
- Nasal saline irrigation: Use a saline spray or neti pot to flush out mucus and keep sinuses moist.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of warm fluids to thin the mucus.
- Elevate your head: Sleep with your head elevated to help sinuses drain.
- Avoid irritants: Stay away from cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, and dusty environments.
- Humidify: Keep indoor air moist if possible.
Medical Treatment
- Paracetamol or Ibuprofen: For pain and fever relief.
- Decongestant nasal sprays: (e.g., Oxymetazoline) for short-term use only (3-5 days maximum). Longer use can worsen congestion.
- Antihistamines: If allergies are contributing to your sinusitis.
- Steroid nasal sprays: (e.g., Fluticasone) prescribed by a doctor for persistent inflammation.
- Antibiotics: Only if your doctor determines it is a bacterial sinusitis (usually when symptoms are severe, last more than 10 days, or worsen after initial improvement).
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- Symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement
- High fever (above 39°C / 102°F)
- Symptoms that get worse after initially improving (suggests bacterial infection)
- Severe headache or facial pain that doesn't respond to painkillers
- Swelling around the eyes (this is an emergency)
- Vision changes or double vision
- Stiff neck with fever
- You have recurrent episodes (4 or more per year)
Prevention
- Treat colds promptly with steam inhalation and rest to prevent progression to sinusitis
- Manage allergies effectively with medication
- Wash hands frequently to prevent upper respiratory infections
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
- Stay hydrated to keep nasal passages moist
- Use a clean humidifier in dry environments
Important: This information is for educational purposes only. If your symptoms are severe or persistent, please consult a doctor. Our doctors are available for home visits and telemedicine consultations.