What is chronic sinusitis?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses — the air-filled spaces around the nose. When symptoms persist for 12 weeks or more it is called chronic sinusitis. It can be driven by allergies, nasal polyps, structural issues, or recurrent infection, all of which are common in Singapore's climate.
Symptoms
- Persistent blocked or runny nose
- Facial pain, pressure or fullness
- Reduced or lost sense of smell
- Post-nasal drip and throat clearing
- Headache and fatigue
Causes and triggers
- Allergic rhinitis (very common locally)
- Nasal polyps
- Deviated nasal septum or narrow drainage pathways
- Recurrent infections
Treatment
Treatment usually starts with medical management — saline rinses, nasal sprays, allergy treatment and, where appropriate, courses of medication. If symptoms persist despite this, an ENT surgeon may recommend functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) or, in suitable cases, balloon sinuplasty to improve drainage. A nasendoscopy in clinic helps confirm the diagnosis.
When to see an ENT specialist
Persistent nasal symptoms beyond a few weeks, recurrent sinus infections, or loss of smell warrant assessment. Seek prompt care for severe facial swelling, vision changes or high fever.
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Browse ENT specialists →Frequently Asked Questions
Most people improve with medical treatment. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate medication, or when there are polyps or structural blockages.
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is a keyhole procedure performed through the nostrils to clear blocked sinus drainage pathways, with no external incisions.
Often, yes. Allergic rhinitis is a common driver locally, so treating allergies is an important part of managing chronic sinusitis.