Sinus inflammation (Sinusitis) – Causes, symptoms, treatment

A stuffy nose that won’t go away, pressure in the head, pain spreading above the eyes and cheeks – sound familiar? When an ordinary cold turns into something more serious, every breath becomes a challenge. Instead of relief, you feel as if your head is trapped in an invisible ring. Sleep is interrupted, energy fades, and you wonder how long this will last. Sinusitis is not just an inconvenience – it can become a serious problem that disrupts daily life. What exactly causes it, how can it be recognized in time, and—most importantly—how do you get rid of this persistent enemy? Find out below.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinus mucosa, the cavities in the facial bones that are connected to the nasal cavity. When an infection or irritation occurs, the sinuses fill with fluid, which can cause unpleasant symptoms such as a stuffy nose, facial pressure, and headaches. It can last for a short time or become a long-term issue, depending on the cause and the method of treatment.

How does sinusitis develop?

Sinusitis most often begins as a common cold or viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. When the nasal and sinus mucous membranes become irritated and swell, it leads to a blockage of the natural openings through which the sinuses normally expel mucus. Fluid retention creates ideal conditions for the development of bacteria, viruses, or fungi, leading to infection.

In addition to a cold, sinusitis can also arise from allergies, a deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps, or irritation caused by polluted air, smoke, and chemicals. When sinus drainage is disrupted, pressure, pain, and other unpleasant symptoms occur.

Types of sinusitis.

Sinusitis is divided according to the duration and cause of the inflammation:

• Acute sinusitis – lasts less than four weeks and is most often the result of a viral infection. Symptoms usually subside on their own, but in some cases, a bacterial infection may develop that requires treatment.
• Subacute sinusitis – lasts between four and twelve weeks and is often a transitional form between acute and chronic sinusitis.
• Chronic sinusitis – symptoms last longer than twelve weeks, and the inflammation often recurs. It can be associated with allergies, nasal polyps, or structural issues in the nose.
• Recurrent sinusitis – appears multiple times a year, with periods of improvement between episodes. This form of sinusitis can indicate a weak immune system or constant exposure to irritants.

Symptoms of sinus inflammation (sinusitis)

Symptoms of sinusitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the inflammation, but most commonly include:

• A stuffy nose – difficulty breathing through the nose due to swelling of the mucous membrane and accumulation of secretions.
• Pressure and pain in the face – an uncomfortable feeling of heaviness or pain in the forehead area, around the eyes, in the cheeks, and nose, which often intensifies when bending over.
• Nasal discharge or postnasal drip – thick and discolored mucus (yellow or green), which can cause irritation in the throat and coughing.
• Headache – often localized in the forehead or crown of the head, and it can worsen throughout the day.
• Cough – especially pronounced at night, when sinus secretions drip down the throat and irritate the airways.
• Fever – may occur with bacterial infections, while in viral cases it is usually mild or absent.
• Weakness and fatigue – a feeling of exhaustion due to difficult breathing and a lack of quality sleep.
• Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste – because of a stuffy nose and inflamed mucous membranes.
• Unpleasant breath – the result of accumulated mucus and bacteria in the sinuses.

These symptoms can last from a few days to several months, depending on the type of sinusitis and timely treatment.

Diagnosing sinusitis

Diagnosis of sinusitis begins with a visit to the doctor, who will make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and a physical examination. During the ENT (ear, nose, and throat) examination, the doctor will carefully examine the nasal passages, throat, and ears, looking for signs of inflammation or infection. By pressing on certain parts of the face, one can determine the presence of pain or tenderness, which indicates sinus inflammation.

In some cases, the doctor may recommend additional diagnostic methods for a more precise insight into the condition of the sinuses. An X-ray (RTG) of the sinuses can show the presence of fluid or thickening of the mucous membrane, which are indicators of inflammation. For a more detailed analysis, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and sinus ultrasound provide clearer images of the sinus structure and can reveal any anatomical irregularities or complications.

Treating sinusitis

The treatment of sinus inflammation depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Experts at the Dr Prlja Medical clinic apply individualized therapeutic approaches, ranging from medication-based treatment to advanced procedures for long-term relief.

In cases of acute sinusitis, which most often results from a viral infection, treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms. The following is recommended:

• Use of nasal decongestant drops to reduce stuffiness.
• Taking pain relievers to ease the pain and pressure in the sinuses.
• Inhaling warm steam to facilitate sinus drainage.

If symptoms persist for longer than a week or worsen, there is a possibility of a bacterial infection, which may require the use of antibiotics.

Chronic sinusitis, which lasts longer than 12 weeks, requires a more detailed evaluation and longer-term sinus treatment. Possible therapeutic options include:

• Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation of the mucosa.
• Antihistamines if allergies are the cause of the problem.
• Nasal irrigation with a saline solution to remove mucus and allergens.

In cases where there is an anatomical obstruction to normal sinus drainage, such as a deviated nasal septum or polyps, a surgical intervention may be necessary.

Home methods to relieve symptoms.

In addition to medical treatments, certain natural methods can contribute to a faster recovery:

• Inhaling steam with added essential oils (eucalyptus or mint) helps clear the airways.
• Warm compresses on the face reduce pain and pressure in the sinuses.
• Maintaining optimal air humidity prevents the drying out of the mucous membranes and makes breathing easier.
• Adequate fluid intake thins the secretions and helps expel them from the sinuses.

Therapy for sinusitis – which medications help?

Treatment of sinusitis with medication depends on its cause and duration.

• Decongestants (nasal sprays and drops) reduce congestion and make breathing easier, but they should not be used for longer than five days to avoid a rebound effect.
• Analgesics such as ibuprofen or paracetamol help in relieving pain and possibly elevated temperature.
• Antibiotics are used only if a doctor confirms a bacterial infection and prescribes them strictly according to the severity of the symptoms.
• Intranasal corticosteroids can be beneficial in cases of chronic sinusitis because they reduce inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane.

Proper use of medications, in combination with other therapeutic methods, can significantly speed up recovery and prevent complications.

Endoscopic sinus surgery – a permanent solution for breathing problems

Endoscopic sinus surgery, or Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), is a minimally invasive procedure designed to resolve chronic sinus problems. This method allows surgeons to access and treat the affected sinuses through the nasal passages—without external incisions—using an endoscope, a thin instrument equipped with a camera and light at the tip. The goal of the surgery is to improve sinus drainage, reduce the frequency of infections, and relieve symptoms such as a blocked nose, facial pain, and a reduced sense of smell. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, and postoperative recovery is relatively quick, with minimal discomfort.

Sinus health – the key to easier breathing

Sinus inflammation can be a persistent problem, but with the right approach, symptoms can be relieved and complications avoided. Treatment of the sinuses depends on the cause and duration of the complaints—while milder forms can be resolved with simple therapies, chronic cases sometimes require a more serious medical approach. Proper nasal hygiene, boosting immunity, and avoiding triggers such as allergens and pollution can help prevent recurring infections. With appropriate therapy and health care, it’s possible to restore normal breathing and improve the quality of life.