Many people in Singapore experience blocked nose, facial pressure, or persistent nasal discharge and wonder whether their symptoms point to acute sinus infection or chronic sinusitis. Understanding the difference helps determine when to seek medical review from an ENT specialist.
What Is an Acute Sinus Infection?
An acute sinus infection (acute sinusitis) occurs when the sinus lining becomes inflamed due to a viral cold, bacterial infection, or nasal allergy. Symptoms usually improve within days to weeks.
Common Symptoms
- Blocked or congested nose
- Thick yellow/green nasal discharge
- Facial pressure or pain (forehead, cheeks, between eyes)
- Reduced smell
- Headache
Key Pointers
- Typically lasts less than 4 weeks
- Often follows a flu or allergy flare
- May improve with medications such as nasal sprays, antihistamines, or antibiotics (if bacterial)
- Early treatment helps prevent progression into chronic sinusitis
How Is Chronic Sinusitis Different?
Chronic sinusitis occurs when sinus inflammation persists for more than 12 weeks despite treatment. This long-term inflammation affects quality of life and may require more detailed evaluation.
Common Symptoms
- Long-standing nasal blockage
- Persistent nasal discharge
- Facial heaviness
- Frequent or repeated sinus infections
- Loss or reduction of smell
- Post-nasal drip
Key Pointers
- Symptoms last 12 weeks or longer
- Can be associated with structural issues (e.g., deviated septum, nasal polyps)
- May require nasoendoscopy and/or CT scan for assessment
- Treatment may include medical therapy or minimally invasive sinus procedures depending on findings
How Do ENT Doctors Diagnose Acute vs Chronic Sinus Problems?
An ENT specialist may perform:
- History & symptom review
- Nasoendoscopy to examine nasal passages and sinus openings
- Assessment for allergies or anatomical causes
- CT scan for persistent or complex cases
- Culture sampling if infection is suspected
These steps help determine the best treatment plan based on whether the sinusitis is acute or chronic.
What Are the Treatment Options for Acute and Chronic Sinusitis?
For Acute Sinus Infection
- Nasal saline rinses
- Nasal decongestants (short-term use)
- Nasal steroid sprays
- Antihistamines for allergy-triggered symptoms
- Antibiotics (only if bacterial infection is suspected)
For Chronic Sinusitis
- Longer-term nasal steroid therapy
- Allergy management
- Treatment of underlying dental or structural issues
- Nasoendoscopy-guided care
- Minimally invasive sinus procedures when symptoms persist despite medication
When Should I See an ENT Specialist in Singapore?
Seek medical review if you notice:
- Sinus symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks
- Severe facial pain or swelling
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Worsening symptoms despite medications
- Reduced smell lasting several weeks
Key Differences
Acute Sinus Infection
- Duration: < 4 weeks
- Often due to virus, bacteria, or allergies
- Symptoms usually respond to short-term treatment
Chronic Sinusitis
- Duration: > 12 weeks
- Ongoing inflammation
- May require specialist evaluation and longer-term management
FAQs: Chronic Sinusitis vs Acute Sinus Infection
1. Can an acute sinus infection turn into chronic sinusitis?
Yes. Untreated or repeated infections may contribute to long-term inflammation.
2. Is chronic sinusitis always caused by infection?
Not necessarily. Allergies, structural issues, or ongoing inflammation may play a role.
3. Do I always need antibiotics for sinus infections?
No. Many acute sinus infections are viral and resolve without antibiotics.
4. Can chronic sinusitis affect smell permanently?
Long-term inflammation may reduce smell, but improvement is possible with proper treatment.
5. When is surgery considered for sinus problems?
Only when symptoms persist despite medical therapy and imaging shows blocked sinus pathways.
Ready for Proper Sinus Relief?
Visit Aurion ENT & Hearing Centre for Personalised Sinus Assessment
Persistent sinus symptoms can impact breathing, sleep, and daily comfort. Early evaluation helps identify whether your condition is acute or chronic, and what treatment is appropriate.
