Those who have experienced sinus problems know how harrowing it can be! Waking up with a clogged nose and feeling pressure around your eyes, along with a persistent dull headache, can make your life hell. For many people in Singapore, sinus infections tend to recur due to the hot, humid climate. So, what do you do when you cope with sinus issues? Trying over-the-counter (OTC) medications and home remedies may not provide lasting relief. For the best experience, book an appointment with a reputed and reliable Singapore sinus doctor.

Sinusitis is more than the common cold

Veteran ENTs in Singapore dealing with sinus problems in people believe that sinusitis is not something that can be effectively treated with generic medications. It happens when the air-filled spaces in your face (behind the eyes and nose) get inflamed. Acute sinusitis is typically short-term and lasts for 2 weeks or so, while chronic sinusitis can last for more than 3 months.
The common symptoms of sinusitis are:

• Thick, yellow, or green nasal discharge.
• Facial pain or pressure.
• Headaches that return.
• Fatigue or poor sleep.
• Persistent blocked nose.
• Loss of smell.

When these symptoms do not reduce with simple and OTC medicines, you should not delay and consult an ENT with expertise in sinus treatment.

How a sinus specialist will make a diagnosis?

A Sinus specialist in Singapore will adopt a methodical approach to treat your case.

• First, they will check for any allergies or asthma issues.
• They will resort to doing a procedure called nasal endoscopy.
• They may request a CT scan to assess sinus damage and identify any blockage.
• They may perform a swab or allergy test.

Medication - the first line of treatment

For mild to moderate cases of sinus infections and their complications, an ENT doctor will typically prescribe medications. They may offer you specialized nasal steroid sprays, saline nasal rinses, Antihistamines, and Antibiotics, based on your situation. Medication will be effective if allergies primarily cause your sinusitis and are not severe.

However, using medication may not be enough if the symptoms persist beyond 12 weeks. Complications such as facial pain and eye swelling may not be adequately addressed by medication alone.

Sinus surgery - why and when it is recommended?

Sinus surgery may be the best choice in some cases of sinusitis, but your specialist will make the final decision. They sometimes perform a procedure called Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, a minimally invasive procedure.

Typically, ENT surgeons suggest FESS when you have chronic sinusitis and medication does not bring much relief. It is often the best way to deal with nasal polyps. In Singapore, sinus surgery is primarily a day procedure, and doctors use general anesthesia.

Summing it up

A sinus surgery is generally safe in Singapore when you choose a veteran ENT surgeon. After the surgery, mild bleeding and nasal congestion may occur. With proper medications and rest, recuperation is quick. You may still need a few follow-up visits. Whether you go for medications or surgical treatments, ensure you select a reputed and experienced ENT specialist.