Signs of Sinusitis and When to See an ENT Specialist
Sinus pain and facial pressure are common symptoms that often get dismissed as headache or flu. However, persistent or recurrent facial pain may indicate sinus disease or other ENT-related conditions that require proper medical evaluation.
As an ENT specialist, I frequently see patients who have taken repeated courses of painkillers or antibiotics without lasting relief, simply because the underlying cause was never properly identified.
What Is Sinus Pain?
Sinus pain is discomfort caused by inflammation or blockage of the sinus cavities, which are air-filled spaces around the nose, eyes, and forehead. When sinus drainage is impaired, pressure builds up, leading to pain.
Patients often describe:
- Pressure over the cheeks, forehead, or between the eyes
- Pain that worsens when bending forward
- Dull aching facial discomfort
- Headache associated with nasal symptoms
Common Causes of Sinus Pain & Facial Pressure
1. Acute Sinusitis
Usually follows a viral upper respiratory infection.
Typical symptoms:
- Facial pain or pressure
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Blocked nose
- Fever or unwell feeling
2. Chronic Sinusitis
Sinus inflammation lasting more than 12 weeks.
Common features:
- Persistent facial pressure
- Nasal blockage
- Post-nasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell
3. Allergic Rhinitis with Sinus Involvement
Untreated allergy causes swelling of the sinus drainage pathways.
4. Dental-Related Sinus Pain
Upper tooth infection can refer pain to the maxillary sinuses.
Clue: pain worsens with chewing or dental pressure.
5. Nasal Polyps
Chronic inflammation leading to sinus obstruction and pressure.
6. Non-Sinus Causes (Often Misdiagnosed)
Not all facial pain is sinus-related:
- Migraine
- Tension headache
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Correct diagnosis is essential to avoid unnecessary treatment.
🚨 When Should You Worry About Sinus Pain?
Seek ENT review if you have:
- Facial pain lasting more than 10 days
- Recurrent episodes throughout the year
- Facial swelling or redness
- Visual disturbance or severe headache
- Sinus pain with persistent nasal blockage
These may indicate complicated sinus disease requiring specialist care.
How an ENT Specialist Assesses Sinus Pain
ENT assessment focuses on confirming whether the pain is truly sinus-related.
This may include:
- Detailed symptom history
- Nasal examination
- Nasal endoscopy to assess sinus drainage pathways
- CT scan of the sinuses when indicated
This approach avoids over-use of antibiotics and ensures accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Sinus Pain & Facial Pressure
✅ Medical Treatment
- Intranasal steroid sprays
- Saline nasal irrigation
- Short course of antibiotics (only when bacterial infection is confirmed)
- Pain control medication
✅ Allergy Management
- Antihistamines
- Allergen avoidance
✅ Surgical Treatment (When Necessary)
- Endoscopic sinus surgery
- Polyp removal
- Correction of structural blockage
Surgery is recommended only if symptoms persist despite optimal medical therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is sinus pain the same as headache?
No. Many headaches are not sinus-related. ENT assessment helps differentiate the cause.
Q: Can sinusitis go away on its own?
Mild acute sinusitis may resolve, but persistent symptoms require treatment.
Q: Do I always need antibiotics for sinus pain?
No. Most sinus pain is inflammatory rather than bacterial.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur?
Consider ENT consultation if:
- Sinus pain keeps recurring
- Symptoms persist beyond 10–14 days
- You require repeated antibiotics
- Facial pain affects sleep or work
An ENT specialist provides precise diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.
Dr. Ameen, ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur 