Why do I keep getting sinus infections?

Written by Dr Ameen, ENT Specialist KL

If your face aches, your nose runs and smells fade every few months, you are not simply unlucky. It is one of the top reasons patients seek me out. Recurrent sinus infections almost always have a reason behind them. Finding that reason is the only way to break the cycle.

The common culprits I find in clinic:
• Untreated allergies causing constant swelling
• A deviated septum or narrow drainage passages
• Nasal polyps blocking the sinus openings
• An untreated first infection that never fully cleared
• Dental problems in the upper teeth
• Smoking or daily exposure to smoke
• Frequent flying or swimming
• A weakened immune system

Here is what the research says. Studies show that more than half of patients with chronic sinusitis also have allergic rhinitis. Untreated allergies keep the sinus lining swollen, so the passages stay blocked and infections keep returning. That is why treating the allergy, not just the infection, breaks the cycle.

Woman using NeilMed sinus rinse nasal irrigation over bathroom sink — A woman carefully rinses her sinuses with a saline solution over a bathroom sink.

See me if you have four or more infections a year, symptoms lasting over ten days, facial pain with fever, or one side that always feels worse. A simple scope and, if needed, a CT scan (Paranasal Sinuses view) will show exactly what is going on. Early answers save you years of misery.

Nurse showing sinus scan images on computer monitor to patient — A nurse explains sinus scan results to a male patient in a consultation room.

Do not keep cycling through antibiotics on your own. They treat one episode, not the pattern. Treat the cause, and the infections usually stop coming back.

Book an appointment to see me if you have this issue: https://www.kpjhealth.com.my/ameen-saiful-azhar