Sinitus Treatment in Singapore

What is “Sinus”?

Sinuses are the hollow spaces in the bones of your face, located near your nose, eyes and cheeks. It helps to produce mucus which traps dust and allergens.

Sometimes, we describe allergic rhinitis colloquially as “sinus”. This tends to manifest in blocked nose, nasal itch, runny nose and sneezing click here.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is a condition where the sinus cavities become inflamed and swollen, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, and difficulty breathing. Sinusitis is a common condition that can affect people worldwide, including those living in Singapore. This is due to the climate change and weather conditions here in Singapore.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Commonly, sinusitis can present with:

• Nasal congestion
• Nasal discharge (usually thick and yellow or green colored)
• Facial pressure
• Post nasal drip

The different Types of Sinusitis

• Acute Sinusitis: This is usually a short-term condition that typically lasts less than four weeks. It occurs when the sinuses get swollen and inflamed due to a viral or bacterial infection. Common symptoms include stuffy nose, facial pain, thick nasal discharge, and a reduced sense of smell.
• Chronic Sinusitis: When the condition persists for more than 12 weeks despite medical treatment, this condition would be most likely chronic. The symptoms are similar to acute sinusitis but may be less severe. Chronic sinusitis can result from persistent infections, allergies, nasal polyps, and other factors that affect sinus drainage.

How do you diagnose sinusitis?

Your doctor will usually take a detailed history and perform a physical examination. Your ENT specialist will be able to perform a flexible nasoendoscope to look inside the nose, looking for pus and swelling. Occasionally, you may require further imaging (CT scan).

Sinusitis Treatment Options in Singapore

In Singapore, there are various sinusitis treatments based the severity of the symptoms.

• Medications for sinusitis treatment: Doctors may prescribe antibiotics and decongestants to treat bacterial sinusitis and reduce inflammation. Nasal sprays with steroids can also help ease symptoms.
• Nasal Rinses for sinusitis treatment: Some people may benefit from using saline rinses to clear mucus and debris from their nasal passages, providing relief.
• CT Scan for sinusitis treatment: For chronic sinusitis that doesn’t improve with treatment, a CT scan may be done to get a better view of the sinuses and identify any issues.

It’s important to work with a doctor to find the best treatment for your specific situation and help you feel better.

Is sinusitis dangerous?

As the sinuses are close to vital organs such as brain and eyes, it can cause complications. In severe cases of sinusitis, infection can spread to the brain and the eyes. 

How do I prevent sinusitis?

If you have allergies, avoiding allergens may help prevent sinusitis. If necessary, your doctor may give you medications to treat your allergic rhinitis as well.