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What is Paranasal Sinus Disease? Chronic Sinus Pain Explained!
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Mootha , ENT
Paranasal sinus disease, commonly called sinusitis, happens when the sinuses become inflamed or swollen. These small, air-filled cavities are located around the nose and eyes.
When they get blocked or infected, it can cause facial pain, pressure, and breathing difficulties. Early treatment helps relieve symptoms and prevent future problems.
What Do the Paranasal Sinuses Do?
Paranasal sinuses are air-filled spaces in the skull, located near the nose and eyes. They are lined with a thin layer of mucus that traps dust and germs.
These sinuses help keep the air warm and moist, reduce skull weight, and even add resonance to your voice when you speak.
The Four Main Pairs of Sinuses Are:
- Frontal sinuses (in the forehead)
- Maxillary sinuses (in the cheeks)
- Ethmoid sinuses (between the eyes)
- Sphenoid sinuses (behind the eyes and nose)
Knowing their locations helps you understand where the pain or pressure is coming from.
What are the Paranasal Sinus Disease Symptoms and Warning Signs?
Sinus disease can appear suddenly (acute) or develop over time (chronic). Recognising symptoms early helps in timely treatment and better recovery.
Common Symptoms of Acute Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis usually lasts a few days to weeks and often follows a cold or respiratory infection.
Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis is a longer-lasting condition that may come and go or remain constant for weeks to months.
- Constant nasal blockage
- Long-lasting facial discomfort
- Yellow or green nasal discharge
- Ongoing tiredness
- Reduced or lost sense of smell
If symptoms last longer than 10 days or return frequently, consult a specialist to avoid complications.
What are the Different Types of Paranasal Sinus Disease?
Sinus disease can vary in its form and severity, depending on how long it lasts and what causes it. Each type may need a different treatment approach.
- Acute Sinusitis:
- Lasts less than 4 weeks.
- Often starts after a cold.
- Subacute Sinusitis:
- Lasts between 4 and 12 weeks.
- Commonly triggered by a viral infection like the common cold.
- Chronic Sinusitis:
- Symptoms continue for more than 12 weeks, even with treatment.
- Usually linked with structural problems, allergies, or ongoing inflammation.
- Recurrent Sinusitis:
- You receive several episodes per year.
- Often, there are periods of relief in between.
Each type needs different care. A doctor can help find the right treatment based on your symptoms and how often they occur.
What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Paranasal Sinus Disease?
Understanding what triggers sinus inflammation can help manage and prevent sinus disease more effectively.
Paranasal Sinus Disease Causes
- Viral Infections, such as the flu or common cold
- Bacterial Infections occur when mucus builds up and becomes infected
- fungal infections, especially in people with weakened immunity
- Allergies that cause long-lasting swelling
- Nasal polyps obstructing airflow
- A deviated septum that makes drainage difficult
- Breathing in smoke, dust, or chemicals
Paranasal Sinus Disease Risk Factors
You're more likely to get sinus issues if you:
- Have frequent colds or allergies
- Smoke or are around secondhand smoke
- Work in dusty or polluted areas
- Have structural problems inside your nose
If you experience ongoing stuffiness or recurring sinus infections, it's time for a check-up. You may need imaging tests or a nasal endoscopy to find the cause.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow is Paranasal Sinus Disease Diagnosed?
Doctors use both a physical examination and imaging tests to confirm sinus inflammation and identify the underlying cause.
Common Diagnostic Tests:
- Nasal Endoscopy: A tiny camera checks your nasal passages and sinus openings.
- CT Scan: Shows detailed images to spot blockages or swelling.
- MRI: Used if complications are suspected or other issues need to be ruled out.
- Allergy Testing: Helps identify triggers in persistent or recurring sinus problems.
- Sinus culture (rare): May be taken to identify a specific infection type.
What are the Treatment Options for Paranasal Sinus Disease?
Treatment depends on the cause of the problem, whether it's short-term, long-term, or related to the nasal structure.
Pharmacological Treatments
Medicines are often the first line of treatment to reduce inflammation, fight infection, and ease symptoms. These are typically prescribed based on whether bacteria, allergies, or other factors are causing the condition.
- Antibiotics: Used for bacterial infections
- Corticosteroids: Reduce swelling and ease breathing
- Decongestants: Shrink swollen nasal passages
- Antihistamines: Help if allergies are the cause
Non-Pharmacological Treatments (At-Home Treatments)
These treatments can provide relief and support recovery, working in conjunction with prescribed medications. They are especially useful for managing mild symptoms at home.
- Saline nasal rinse: Clears mucus and allergens
- Steam inhalation: Opens up blocked sinuses and reduces pressure
Surgical Interventions
Surgery is considered when medications and home remedies are not enough, or if there's a physical blockage like polyps or a deviated septum.
- FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery): Removes blockages or polyps
- Septoplasty or polyp removal: Don't structure to improve drainage
When to See a Doctor?
While sinus issues often resolve with time and care, certain signs may indicate a more serious condition.
See a doctor if:
- Symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement
- You get sinus infections often
- You have a weakened immune system or known nasal structural problems
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Consult Paranasal Sinus Disease Doctors Today
What is the Recovery Process After Paranasal Sinus Disease Treatment?
Recovery depends on the cause, whether the condition is acute or chronic, and whether treatment was medical or surgical. Most people feel better within a few days to weeks with the right care.
Typical Recovery Support Includes
- Regular follow-up with ENT specialists
- Continued nasal irrigation or medication
- Staying hydrated and using humidifiers
- Avoiding allergens and pollutants
- After surgery, breathing and drainage typically improve within 1-3 weeks
What Precautions Can Help Prevent Paranasal Sinus Disease?
Taking preventive steps can help lower your risk of developing sinus problems, especially if you're prone to allergies or frequently get colds.
Paranasal Sinus Disease Prevention
- Avoid allergens and environmental irritants
- Use humidifiers during dry seasons
- Stay well-hydrated
- Treat colds and allergies early
Paranasal Sinus Disease Complications
If left untreated, sinus infections can sometimes lead to serious complications. Recognising symptoms early and starting treatment quickly is essential.
- Orbital infections (eye socket infections)
- Meningitis (infection spreading to the brain)
- Bone infections like osteomyelitis
- Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Keep Your Paranasal Sinuses Healthy
Good daily habits can keep your sinuses functioning well and reduce the risk of infections or inflammation.
- Avoid cigarette smoke and strong fumes
- Use a humidifier during dry seasons
- Stay well-hydrated
- Practice good hand hygiene to avoid infections
- Use saline nasal sprays to keep the nasal passages moist
- Treat colds, allergies, or nasal issues early
Our Experience Treating Paranasal Sinus Disease
At Medicover Hospital's, we understand how sinus problems can affect your breathing, sleep, and overall well-being. That's why our team focuses on personalised, patient-friendly care at any stage of your treatment journey.
Our ENT specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify the root cause of sinus issues. Whether you're dealing with personal sinus issues or chronic inflammation, we're here to help you find lasting relief and a better quality of life.
