Key points
- Swollen sinus lining blocks drainage
- Often follows a cold or allergy
- Steam and saline help many people
- Eye swelling or severe headache = urgent
What it is
The sinuses are small air spaces in the bones around the nose, cheeks and forehead. In sinusitis their lining becomes swollen, mucus cannot drain, and pressure builds up.
Short-lived (acute) sinusitis usually follows a cold. When symptoms last more than twelve weeks it is called chronic sinusitis, often linked with allergy or nasal blockage.
Common signs
- Blocked or stuffy nose
- Thick yellow or green discharge, or mucus running down the throat
- Pain or pressure in the cheeks, forehead or around the eyes — worse on bending forward
- Reduced sense of smell
- Headache, tiredness, bad breath
Common causes
- A cold or flu
- Nasal allergy
- Dust, smoke and pollution
- A bent nasal septum or nasal polyps
- Dental infection in the upper teeth
- Swimming in chlorinated water for some people
Everyday care that helps
- Breathe steam from a bowl of hot water for a few minutes (take care with children)
- Rinse the nose with salt water if advised
- Drink plenty of warm fluids
- Sleep with the head slightly raised
- Avoid smoke and dusty air
- Treat nasal allergy if present
When to see a doctor promptly
- Swelling or redness around the eyes, or double vision
- Severe headache, stiff neck or confusion
- High fever
- Symptoms getting worse after first improving
How we approach it at Gursagar
We look at how often the episodes come, what starts them, your nose and allergy history, environment and general health.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually and reviews the pattern of episodes over time.
Common questions
Do I always need antibiotics?
No. Most sinusitis is viral; your doctor will decide if antibiotics are needed.
Is steam safe?
Yes for adults with care; children should not be left alone near hot water.
Can I consult online?
Yes.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.