Sinus disease

Sinus disease describes inflammation or blockage in the air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes. It may be short-term or ongoing, and can cause congestion, thick drainage, postnasal drip, facial pressure or pain, headache, reduced smell, cough, or dental and ear discomfort. Allergies, infections, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum may contribute. Symptoms that recur or persist deserve an evaluation rather than assuming every flare is a bacterial infection.

An evaluation typically includes your symptom history and an examination of the nose, throat, and face. When appropriate, an ENT clinician may use nasal endoscopy, imaging, allergy testing, or other tests to clarify the cause. Treatment is matched to your findings and may include saline rinses, nasal medicines, allergy care, antibiotics for selected bacterial infections, or discussion of surgery when persistent disease or structural blockage does not improve with medical care. Your consultation should focus on your concerns, goals, and overall health.