What is sinusitis?
The sinuses are air spaces inside the facial bones that drain into the nose. When their openings are blocked, mucus collects and becomes inflamed. Sinusitis lasting less than 12 weeks is called acute; longer than that, chronic.
Symptoms
- Blocked nose and thick, coloured discharge
- Postnasal drip
- Pressure and pain in the face, forehead or around the eyes
- Reduced sense of smell
- Headache that gets worse when bending forward
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on symptoms and nasal endoscopy. A sinus CT scan is done for chronic sinusitis or when surgery is planned. Contributing causes such as nasal polyps, a deviated septum and allergy are also looked for.
Treatment options
Acute sinusitis usually settles with nasal rinses, nasal sprays and, when needed, antibiotics. In chronic sinusitis, long-term steroid nasal sprays and rinses are the main treatment.
If symptoms continue despite proper medical treatment, if there are polyps or if attacks keep coming back, endoscopic sinus surgery is considered. A thin camera is passed through the nostrils, blocked sinus openings are widened and polyps are removed. There is no incision on the face.
After surgery
| WHEN | WHAT TO EXPECT |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Usually one night in hospital. Slight oozing from the nose is normal. |
| Week 1 | Nasal rinses start; crusts are cleaned at the first check-up. |
| Week 2 | Back to daily life. |
| Months 1–3 | Healing inside the sinuses is followed at check-ups; spray treatment continues. |
Times are averages and vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Does every sinusitis need antibiotics?
No. Most acute sinusitis is caused by viruses and gets better without antibiotics. They are given when a bacterial infection is suspected.
Can sinusitis come back after surgery?
Surgery helps the sinuses drain, but underlying causes such as allergy or a tendency to polyps can remain. Regular follow-up and spray treatment after surgery are important.
How can I tell sinusitis from allergy?
Allergy mainly causes sneezing, itching and watery discharge; sinusitis causes facial pain and thick discharge. A clear answer comes from the examination.
Does the surgery leave a scar on the face?
No. Endoscopic sinus surgery is done through the nostrils and leaves no scar on the face.
Sinusitis and endoscopic sinus surgery
We can only discuss the right option for you after an examination. Write on WhatsApp to arrange a visit with Op. Dr. Efkan Mehdiyev.
Write on WhatsAppThis content is for general information only. Every surgical procedure carries its own risks and results vary from person to person. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.