Sinusitis Dr Rob Hicks Sinusitis occurs when any of the sinuses become inflamed - a condition that can be acute or chronic.

In this article

What is sinusitis? Symptoms

Causes and risk factors Treatment and recovery

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, usually brought on by viral infection.

In acute sinusitis the symptoms may include:

• Headache
• High temperature
• Nasal congestion or obstruction
• Pain and tenderness in the face, especially when coughing or bending over
• Yellow or green nasal discharge
• Loss of taste and smell

Some people develop chronic sinusitis, in which similar but less severe symptoms recur from time to time or are permanently present.

The sinuses are air-filled cavities in the bones of the face that improve the resonance of the voice. The five pairs of sinuses are interconnected and also connect with the nasal passages. The most common cause is viral infection.

Sinusitis is more common in adults. It rarely occurs in children under the age of five. People with nasal abnormalities (such as deviated nasal septum), allergic rhinitis or cystic fibrosis are more likely to develop sinusitis.

Not smoking, avoiding smoky environments and keeping the immune system strong to reduce the risk of infection can help to prevent it.

Acute sinusitis as a result of a viral upper respiratory infection often clears up by itself without the need for specific treatment. Sometimes antibiotics are needed if there is a possible secondary bacterial sinus infection.

Painkillers and decongestant nose drops or sprays can help relieve symptoms. Steroid sprays may be prescribed to help reduce congestion, especially if the patient also suffers from hayfever or allergic rhinitis.

Saline nasal inhalations may help to reduce congestion and clear secretions, as does inhaling steam from hot water that has added menthol or eucalyptus oil. Care should be taken because of the risk of scalding.

Sometimes an operation to drain the sinuses is needed.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Gill Jenkins in August 2009.