About this condition
Rhinosinusitis is inflammation affecting the nose and paranasal sinuses. Maxillary sinusitis involves the cheek sinuses; it is one form of sinusitis rather than a synonym for every sinus problem.
What matters most
Congestion, nasal discharge, pressure around the cheeks or forehead and reduced smell may occur. A headache or the colour of mucus alone does not establish a bacterial sinus infection.
Symptoms and reasons to seek help
Patients describe a blocked nose, discharge, facial pressure, tiredness and sometimes fever. Duration, repeated episodes and any improvement followed by worsening after a cold are important details to report.
Distinguishing similar conditions
A short episode following a viral infection differs from prolonged or recurrent disease. Allergy, dental problems and nasal anatomy may contribute to persistent symptoms. Acute sinusitis does not automatically require antibiotics or an invasive sinus procedure.
How clinicians investigate
An ENT clinician reviews the timeline, examines the nose and throat and checks for complications. Endoscopy or imaging may help in selected cases, but neither is routinely required for every uncomplicated episode.
Care and important limitations
Management depends on whether symptoms are acute or chronic, on the suspected cause and on risks. Many short episodes improve without antibiotics. Do not start antibiotics or request sinus puncture solely because of coloured discharge.
When emergency help is needed
Swelling around the eye, double vision, visual loss, severe unusual headache, pronounced drowsiness or major deterioration needs urgent medical care. Call 103 or 112 if life-threatening features appear.
Related information
Nasal congestion; Deviated nasal septum; Adenoids in children.
Signs and symptoms
Patients describe a blocked nose, discharge, facial pressure, tiredness and sometimes fever. Duration, repeated episodes and any improvement followed by worsening after a cold are important details to report.
Diagnosis and tests
An ENT clinician reviews the timeline, examines the nose and throat and checks for complications. Endoscopy or imaging may help in selected cases, but neither is routinely required for every uncomplicated episode.
Care and treatment approaches
Management depends on whether symptoms are acute or chronic, on the suspected cause and on risks. Many short episodes improve without antibiotics. Do not start antibiotics or request sinus puncture solely because of coloured discharge.
When to seek urgent care
Swelling around the eye, double vision, visual loss, severe unusual headache, pronounced drowsiness or major deterioration needs urgent medical care. Call 103 or 112 if life-threatening features appear.
Frequently asked questions
Are maxillary sinusitis and sinusitis the same?
Maxillary sinusitis affects a specific sinus; sinusitis is the broader term for inflammation of one or more sinuses.
Does everyone need sinus imaging?
No. The need for imaging depends on the symptoms, course and suspicion of complications.
Are antibiotics needed for every episode?
No. Viral illness is common, and treatment decisions depend on clinical criteria and risk.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
