Acute Sinusitis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Most of us have experienced the misery of a blocked nose, facial pressure, and thick mucus that just won’t go away. This is often due to acute sinusitis—inflammation of the sinuses that usually follows a cold or viral infection.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we see many patients with sinus problems and can help guide you through treatment and recovery.
What is Acute Sinusitis?
The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the cheeks, forehead, and around the eyes. When the lining of the nose swells—most often after a viral cold—the drainage pathways of the sinuses become blocked. Mucus builds up, creating pressure and sometimes leading to infection.
Symptoms of Acute Sinusitis
Blocked nose
Facial pain or pressure (often worse when bending forward)
Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
Loss of smell
Fever or feeling unwell (in some cases)
Most acute sinusitis episodes last less than 4 weeks and improve on their own, but the symptoms can be very uncomfortable.
Treatment Options
1. Self-Care and Symptom Relief
Saline rinses to clear mucus and keep the nose moist.
Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Decongestant sprays or drops (short-term use only, usually no more than 5–7 days).
2. Medical Treatment
Nasal steroid sprays can reduce swelling and help the sinuses drain.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if bacterial infection is suspected—particularly if symptoms last longer than 10 days, worsen after initial improvement, or are severe.
3. When to Seek Specialist Care
If sinus infections are:
Very severe,
Recurrent (several times a year), or
Not improving with usual treatments,
…then seeing an ENT specialist is important. We can check for underlying problems such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or chronic inflammation that may need longer-term treatment.
How Hampshire ENT Clinics Can Help
Our expert ENT consultants provide:
A detailed nasal examination (often with a small camera).
Tailored treatment plans—ranging from medical therapy to minimally invasive surgery if sinus drainage pathways are blocked.
Advanced techniques for patients with chronic or recurrent sinusitis to restore healthy breathing and prevent repeated infections.
Take the First Step
Acute sinusitis can make you feel exhausted and miserable—but effective treatments are available. If you suffer with repeated sinus infections or symptoms that just won’t settle, the team at Hampshire ENT Clinics is here to help.
📞 Contact us today to arrange your consultation.