Sinusitis is inflammation (redness and swelling) of the sinuses. The sinuses are small, air-filled spaces in your cheekbones and forehead. Inflammation blocks the sinuses so mucus cannot drain into your nose as usual.
Sinusitis is usually caused by a viral infection. It’s common and usually gets better within 2 to 3 weeks.
Sinusitis usually occurs after an infection, such as a cold.
Symptoms of sinusitis include:
Children with sinusitis may:
The symptoms of sinusitis often clear up within a few weeks (acute sinusitis). Occasionally they can last 3 months or more (chronic sinusitis).
If your symptoms are mild and getting better, you can often treat sinusitis without seeing a GP.
Your GP will usually be able to diagnose sinusitis from your symptoms and by examining the inside of your nose.
If you keep getting sinusitis, or its severe, they may refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
Sinusitis usually gets better on its own within 2 or 3 weeks.
Always read the leaflet that comes with your medicine before taking it. Follow the recommended dosage instructions. If you’re not sure which treatments are suitable for you or your child, speak to a pharmacist for advice.
You do not need to use all of the solution, but make a fresh solution each time you clean your nose.
If your symptoms aren’t improving or are getting worse, your GP may prescribe antibiotics tablets or corticosteroid spray or drops.
If your symptoms still don’t get better, you may be referred to an ENT specialist for surgery to improve the drainage of your sinuses.
Sinusitis is usually caused by a cold or flu virus spreading to the sinuses from the upper airways. Only a few cases are caused by bacteria infecting the sinuses.
An infected tooth or fungal infection can also occasionally cause the sinuses to become inflamed.
It’s not clear exactly what causes sinusitis to become chronic (long-lasting), but it may be related to:
Controlling underlying conditions like allergies may improve the symptoms of chronic sinusitis.
Last updated:
05 March 2024