Sinusitis
Blocked, painful sinuses that won't shift — what sinusitis is, why it happens, and how a consultant can help.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses — the air-filled spaces behind your cheeks, nose and forehead — which leaves them swollen, blocked and tender.
It's very common and often follows a cold. Most short-lived bouts settle on their own, but when symptoms keep coming back or won't clear, a consultant assessment can find out why and put a plan in place.
Symptoms of sinusitis.
They often follow a cold — and the tell-tale sign is pressure that's worse when you bend forward.
Why it happens.
Sinusitis usually starts when something inflames the sinus lining and stops it draining. Several things make that more likely.
Don't wait for it to settle.
Early assessment helps you get the right treatment sooner. See a specialist if:
Assessed with an ENT examination and nasal endoscopy.
A consultant ENT surgeon examines your nose and sinuses and, where it's helpful, passes a slim camera (nasal endoscopy) to look inside. This shows what's driving the inflammation — such as polyps or a blocked drainage channel — so your treatment can be aimed at the cause.
How sinusitis is treated.
We start with the least invasive approach that will work for you, and explain each step in plain English.
A full ENT consultation to pin down what's behind your symptoms and agree a plan.
A camera assessment of the nose and sinuses, done at your visit when it's needed to see the cause.
Treatments such as nasal sprays, rinses and allergy measures to settle the inflammation and help the sinuses drain — tailored to you at your consultation.
Seen in days — not months on a list.
A named specialist, not a junior — all the way through.
Every price published and confirmed in writing.
Seen privately, without the wait.
We bill major UK insurers directly.
How long does sinusitis usually last? +
Most short-lived (acute) bouts settle within two to three weeks, often after a cold. When symptoms last longer than about twelve weeks it's called chronic sinusitis, and that's worth a consultant assessment.
What's the difference between acute and chronic sinusitis? +
Acute sinusitis is a one-off bout that clears up; chronic sinusitis is inflammation that persists for twelve weeks or more, or keeps returning. Persistent symptoms usually have an underlying cause worth identifying.
Do I need antibiotics for sinusitis? +
Often not — most sinusitis is viral and doesn't respond to antibiotics. Treatment usually focuses on settling the inflammation and helping the sinuses drain. Your consultant will advise what's right for your case.
Do I need a GP referral to be seen? +
No — you can book your ENT appointment with us directly, with no referral needed, often within a week.
Don't put up with it.
Book an assessment with a consultant and get a clear picture — and a plan.