Understanding sinusitis – and when to seek specialist help

  • Overview
Help and advice
Okechukwu Okonkwo Okechukwu Okonkwo Consultant ENT Surgeon
Sinusitis can really affect your daily life. Whether it’s a short-lived episode after a cold, or ongoing problems that won’t go away, knowing how to manage sinusitis – and when to get expert help – can make all the difference.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis simply means inflammation of the small air spaces (sinuses) around your nose and eyes. When they become swollen or blocked, mucus builds up, causing:

  • A blocked or stuffy nose
  • Pain or pressure in the face or around the eyes
  • Thick nasal discharge
  • Reduced sense of smell
  • Tiredness or difficulty sleeping

Most people experience sinusitis at some point, usually after a cold or flu. For many, it clears within a few weeks. But for others, symptoms drag on or keep coming back – and that’s when it’s time to take action.

Self-help remedies that may ease symptoms

If you have mild or short-term sinusitis, there are some simple steps you can try at home:

Steam inhalation: Breathing in warm steam from a bowl of hot water or a shower may help loosen mucus.

Saline sprays or rinses: These wash out the nose and keep it moist, reducing blockage.

Over-the-counter pain relief: Paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease discomfort and reduce fever.

Plenty of rest and fluids: Supporting your body’s recovery is just as important as easing symptoms.

Many people find these measures enough to get them through a short episode.

When should you see your doctor?

It’s sensible to contact your GP if:

  • Symptoms last longer than 3 weeks
  • You have repeated bouts of sinusitis across the year
  • Your symptoms are affecting work, sleep, or quality of life
  • You develop severe swelling around the eyes, a very high fever, or worsening headaches (these are rare but need urgent medical attention)

Your GP may suggest stronger treatments, but if problems keep returning, a referral to an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) specialist is often the next step.

Why see a specialist?

An ENT consultant with expertise in nose and sinus conditions can offer a detailed assessment and treatments that aren’t always available through your GP. This may include:

  • Nasal endoscopy to look directly into the sinuses
  • Advanced scans if needed
  • Tailored medical treatment plans
  • Minimally invasive surgery for patients who don’t respond to medicines

At Nuffield Health, patients can see a highly experienced ENT surgeon specialising in nose and sinus problems (rhinology), without a long wait. Many people say that getting a clear diagnosis and plan is a turning point, helping them breathe easier, sleep better, and enjoy life again.

The bottom line

Most sinus infections are short-lived and improve with self-care. But if your symptoms are ongoing, severe, or repeatedly disrupting your life, it’s worth seeing a specialist. With expert support from me, there are effective options to get you back on track.

Last updated Friday 16 January 2026

First published on Friday 16 January 2026

Help and advice