Best Treatment for Sinusitis in Kolkata: Medical Options Explained

What is Sinusitis?

Sinus headache is a condition in which the spaces in your nose, known as sinuses, become inflamed. There are four major categories of sinusitis: acute, subacute, chronic, and recurrent.

• Acute sinusitis: Symptoms occur for less than 4 weeks and improve over time.
• Subacute sinusitis: The infection is more severe than acute sinusitis, and initial treatments are ineffective. Symptoms do not last long and typically last 4 to 8 weeks.
• Chronic sinusitis: The effects are persistent despite acute infections, and symptoms last for 8 weeks or longer.
• Recurrent sinusitis: Such conditions are characterised by three or more repeating episodes of acute sinusitis in a year and hence are known as recurrent.

Let’s now explore some of the factors which lead to sinusitis, which will help you understand how to cure sinus permanently​.

Why Does Sinusitis Occur?

Sinusitis starts when the natural openings of your sinuses become blocked, which increases pain, pressure, and the risk of infection. Studies suggest that chronic rhinosinusitis affects around 5% to 12% of adults ¹.

• Blocked sinus: Swollen nasal tissues restrict the flow of mucus, which increases pressure in the sinuses and results in infection.
• Nasal polyps: Soft tissue growth within the nose blocks sinus passages and leads to chronic sinus symptoms.
• Allergic rhinitis: Dust, pollen, and smoke trigger nasal swelling. The involuntary reaction narrows sinus openings and traps mucus.
• Weak immune response: Diabetes, long-term illness, or steroid use lowers resistance and compromises immunity, raising infection risk.
• Deviated nasal septum: A bent nasal wall reduces airflow on one side, which raises the risk of repeated sinus trouble.

Now, let’s explore some of the common symptoms of sinusitis, which you must know.

Sinus Headache and Other Common Symptoms to Watch For

As part of the best treatment for sinusitis, doctors first rely on symptom patterns, since these signs help confirm sinus involvement rather than routine cold or stress-related pain.

Here are some of the common symptoms that often correspond to sinusitis:

• Sinus headache: A dull, constant pain over the forehead, cheeks, nose bridge, or behind the eyes. The pain often rises when you bend forward or apply gentle pressure to the face.
• Facial pressure or pain: A heavy or tight sensation around the cheeks, upper jaw, or between the eyes, which may stay limited to one side.
• Blocked or congested nose: Difficulty with nasal airflow through one or both nostrils, which may disturb sleep and daily comfort.
• Thick nasal discharge: Green or yellow mucus from the nose or at the back of the throat, which often suggests infection rather than allergy.
• Reduced sense of smell or taste: Partial or complete loss of smell due to swollen nasal lining and blocked sinus openings.
• Upper tooth pain: Aching in the upper teeth, since the roots lie close to the maxillary sinuses.
• Facial tenderness: Sensitivity over the cheeks or forehead when touched, often due to pressure within the sinuses, and may occur along with a sore throat.
• Fever and general tiredness: A mild rise in body temperature with body weakness, more common in acute sinusitis.

Next, let’s explore the best treatment options for sinusitis to help you assess the disease.

Best Treatment for Sinusitis: Medical Options That Work

Most sinus issues improve when you start the best treatment for sinusitis early. Research shows that up to 70% of acute cases improve without prescription medicines within 7 days, but targeted care can ease symptoms and prevent relapses ².

Nasal Saline Irrigation

Nasal saline irrigation helps clear mucus and debris from your nasal passages, reducing pressure and improving breathing. When you rinse with a saline solution, it helps keep your nose moist and pushes out irritants that might worsen sinus blockages. It is recommended as part of routine care for both acute and chronic sinus issues.

Topical Intranasal Steroids

Topical nasal steroid sprays help reduce swelling in the sinus lining, lowering inflammation that blocks sinus drainage. These sprays are handy if you have repeated symptoms or allergy-related sinus issues. It is safe for many adults when used under medical guidance.

Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are used only when your sinus problem appears to be caused by bacteria and symptoms persist for more than 10 days without improvement. Specific antibiotics for bacterial sinusitis are often taken for about a week. However, overuse may promote resistance; your ENT specialists will confirm the bacterial infection before recommending antibiotics.

Pain Relievers and Supportive Care

Simple pain-relief medicines can help reduce headaches and facial discomfort while other treatments begin to work. Non-prescription options can ease pain and lower fever if present. Additionally, rest, good hydration, and gentle warm compresses applied to the face can reduce nasal pressure.

Treatment for Chronic Sinusitis

For sinus problems that last more than 12 weeks, your doctor may recommend a longer course of topical steroids or a short course of oral steroids to reduce persistent inflammation. If medical care does not provide sufficient relief, a specialist review may be needed to consider other options, such as surgery.

When to Consult an ENT Specialist for Long-Term Relief

You should consult an ENT doctor if symptoms of sinusitis persist beyond ten days, recur several times each year, or fail to respond to medical treatments. It is critical to seek speciality services if you experience severe facial pain, eye swelling, repetitive patterns in fever, or nasal blockage, as these signs may indicate for progressive sinus involvement.

Why Choose Eskag Sanjeevani for Your ENT Treatments

Eskag Sanjeevani has offered comprehensive healthcare in Kolkata since 2004, with a vast network of hospitals that provide advanced medical care across specialities, including top ENT specialists in Kolkata. Moreover, the hospitals have high clinical standards and patient-first practices, supported by experienced doctors and modern diagnostic facilities. With multiple locations across Kolkata and affordable care options, Eskag Sanjeevani makes it easier for you to access quality ENT treatment close to home.