Sinus infections are one of the most common causes of facial pain, blocked nose, and persistent nasal discharge in Singapore.
Sinusitis occurs when the sinus cavities in the face become inflamed or infected. It can cause nasal blockage, pressure around the eyes or cheeks, headaches, and thick mucus. Many patients experience repeated episodes that interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities.
At Aurion ENT & Hearing Centre, Dr Liu Jiaying evaluates and treats both acute and chronic sinusitis, helping patients breathe comfortably again.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus lining caused by:
- Viral infections (cold/flu)
- Bacterial infections
- Allergies
- Structural issues (deviated septum, polyps)
- Nasal inflammation from irritants
- Poor sinus drainage
It may be:
- Acute sinusitis — lasts days to weeks
- Chronic sinusitis — lasts >12 weeks
- Recurrent sinusitis — multiple episodes per year
Chronic sinusitis can significantly affect quality of life if not treated properly.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
Common symptoms include:
- Blocked or congested nose
- Yellow/green nasal discharge
- Facial pain or pressure (cheeks, forehead, between eyes)
- Reduced sense of smell
- Postnasal drip
- Cough (especially at night)
- Ear fullness
- Fatigue
Symptoms in children may include:
- Persistent runny nose
- Chronic cough
- Snoring or mouth breathing
- Irritability or poor sleep
If symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, ENT evaluation is recommended.
Is sinusitis caused by infection or allergy?
It can be either, or both.
Infection-related sinusitis:
- Fever
- Thick yellow/green mucus
- Severe facial pain
- Sudden onset
Allergy-related sinusitis:
- Blocked nose
- Clear mucus initially (may turn yellow over time)
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Symptoms worsen with exposure to triggers
Allergies often lead to swelling that blocks sinus drainage, causing repeated sinus infections.
When should I see an ENT doctor for sinusitis?
See an ENT specialist if sinus symptoms:
- Last longer than 7–10 days
- Occur frequently throughout the year
- Cause severe facial pressure or headaches
- Affect smell or taste
- Lead to snoring or mouth breathing
- Cause bad breath or throat irritation
- Do not improve with medication
- Cause swelling around the eyes
Seek urgent care if there is:
- Eye swelling
- Visual disturbance
- High fever
- Severe headache or stiff neck
These may indicate complications that require immediate treatment.
How do ENT doctors diagnose sinusitis?
Evaluation at Aurion ENT may include:
1. Nasal examination
To assess inflammation, mucus, and airflow.
2. Nasoendoscopy
A painless, in-clinic procedure using a small camera to visualise the nose and sinus opening areas for:
- Polyps
- Infection
- Narrow drainage pathways
- Structural issues
3. CT scan of the sinuses
Recommended for chronic or recurrent sinusitis to assess deeper anatomy and inflammation.
4. Allergy assessment
If allergic rhinitis contributes to symptoms.
5. Dental evaluation (if needed)
Some sinus infections arise from upper tooth infections.
What are the treatment options for sinusitis?
(MOH-compliant)
1. Medications
- Antibiotics (if bacterial infection suspected)
- Nasal steroid sprays
- Anti-allergy medications
- Decongestants (short-term use)
- Pain relief
2. Nasal saline irrigation
Helps clear mucus, relieve blockage, and reduce inflammation.
3. Treating underlying causes
- Allergic rhinitis
- Structural deviations
- Dental infections
4. Minimally invasive procedures
If medical therapy fails, options may include:
- Turbinate reduction
- Polyp removal
- Correction of nasal deviation
5. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS)
Considered for:
- Chronic sinusitis not responding to medication
- Recurrent infections
- Severe nasal polyps
- Significant anatomical obstruction
ESS is designed to restore natural drainage and improve long-term airflow.
Sinusitis Symptom Checker
A quick tool to help identify what type of sinus issue you may be experiencing.
(Not a substitute for ENT assessment.)
1. “My nose is blocked most days.”
Possible chronic sinusitis or allergic rhinitis.
2. “I have yellow or green mucus.”
May indicate bacterial or persistent infection.
3. “I feel pressure in my cheeks or forehead.”
Classic symptom of sinus inflammation.
4. “I can’t smell well.”
Common in chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps.
5. “I cough at night, especially when lying down.”
Likely postnasal drip due to sinusitis.
6. “I get sinus infections several times a year.”
Possible recurrent sinusitis — may need imaging or ENT evaluation.
7. “My child always has a runny nose or snores.”
Could be adenoid enlargement, allergies, or chronic sinus congestion.
8. “My eyes are swollen.”
Could indicate complication — seek urgent care.
FAQ: Sinusitis
What causes sinusitis?
Sinusitis occurs when sinus passages become inflamed due to infection, allergies, or structural blockage.
How long does sinusitis last?
Acute sinusitis lasts days to weeks, while chronic sinusitis lasts more than 12 weeks.
How is sinusitis treated?
Treatment may include nasal sprays, irrigation, antibiotics, and in some cases endoscopic sinus surgery.
Is sinus surgery safe?
Yes. Endoscopic sinus surgery is minimally invasive and improves drainage for chronic or severe cases.
Can allergies cause sinusitis?
Yes. Untreated allergic rhinitis commonly leads to blocked drainage and recurrent sinus infections.
Should I see a doctor for yellow mucus?
Yes if symptoms persist beyond 7–10 days or are accompanied by fever or facial pain.
Is sinusitis contagious?
The viral infections that cause sinusitis may be contagious, but sinus inflammation itself is not.
Struggling with blocked nose, facial pressure, or recurrent sinus infections?
Timely ENT evaluation can provide long-term relief and improve your breathing, sleep, and daily comfort.
Aurion ENT & Hearing Centre – Farrer Park
- Nasoendoscopy for accurate diagnosis
- Treatment for acute, chronic & recurrent sinusitis
- Allergy assessment & management
- Minimally invasive sinus procedures
- Adult ENT & Children ENT care
