The common sinus conditions assessed and managed at this practice include chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, facial pain and recurrent sinus infections.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses — the air-filled chambers within the bones of the face and skull. When the sinuses become obstructed, secretions can pool, leading to inflammation and infection of the tissue lining.
If this process persists for three or more months, it becomes chronic rhinosinusitis, with symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, altered sense of smell and facial pressure.
Sinusitis covers a spectrum of disease, including recurrent acute sinusitis, fungal infections and mucocele formation. It can also be associated with other conditions such as sleep apnoea, asthma or reflux.
What causes sinusitis?
Sinusitis is usually caused by a trigger that drives persistent inflammation, commonly allergens, viruses, bacteria or fungi. The causes of chronic sinusitis are complex, and it remains an area of active research.
Treatment pathway
Treatment for sinusitis is initially conservative. Your GP may recommend nasal saline rinses, corticosteroid and antihistamine sprays, and occasionally antibiotics or oral steroids.
If symptoms don’t improve, you’ll likely be referred to a specialist for further investigation. Surgery is considered when medication and conservative treatment haven’t given lasting relief. See Nasal & Sinus Surgery for the surgical options Dr Padhye performs.
How sinus conditions are diagnosed
Sinus conditions are diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination and, where needed, nasal endoscopy and imaging such as a CT scan. Allergy testing may also be recommended.
When to see an ENT surgeon
If you think you might have a sinus condition, see your GP first. They’ll assess you and, if appropriate, start a treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t respond to medication, persist for more than one to three months, or interfere with your quality of life, ask for a referral to an ear, nose and throat surgeon.
Summary
Chronic rhinosinusitis comes from long-standing inflammation of the sinus linings. It’s often driven by allergy, infection, nasal polyps or anatomical blockage.
Medical therapy is the first line. Surgery is considered when inflammation is poorly controlled.
