Ascent Ear Nose & Throat
Sinusitis Specialist In Singapore
Sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses, which are air-filled pockets that are connected to our nasal cavities. It is vital to understand your symptoms and seek medical treatment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and management can reduce the complications of sinusitis.
Comprehensive Services
Providing the highest standard of ENT care in Singapore and the region.
Accredited Specialists
Senior ENT surgeons with internationally-recognised fellowship training.
Convenient Locations
4 Clinics conveniently located in Orchard, Napier Road, Thomson, and Joo Chiat.
Common Symptoms of Sinusitis
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Decreased sense of smell
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Runny nose or thick, discoloured (yellow, brown or green) discharge from the nose (mucus)
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Stuffy or congested nose
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Pain and swelling around your eyes, cheeks or nose
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Fever
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Headache
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Sore throat
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Fatigue
What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses, which are air-filled pockets that are connected to our nasal cavities. Sinuses produce the mucus that keeps our noses moist. Most symptoms of sinusitis are similar to those of rhinitis, such as nasal congestion and runny nose.
However, people with sinusitis will often feel pain in the face and mouth area as well.
Complications of Sinusitis
Severe complications of sinusitis are rare but may include:
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Reduced vision
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Meningitis or inflammation of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord
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Orbital cellulitis or infection of the tissues surrounding the eyes
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Bone infection
Common Causes of Sinusitis
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Bacterial infection
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Allergic reaction
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Nasal polyps which block the nasal passages or sinuses
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Deviated nasal septum
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Immune system disorders such as cystic fibrosis, which causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs and other mucous membrane linings
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Respiratory tract infections such as cold or flu virus that spread to the sinuses
For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents
Insurance & Medisave Partners
Certain ENT procedures are claimable under Medisave, and the exact amount would depend on the procedure. For more information, please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plan, Integrated Shield Plan, or Medisave.
Diagnosis of Sinusitis
Physical examination
Your doctor may look at your symptoms and examine the inside of your nose to detect signs of inflammation. They may also review your family and medical history.
Flexible nasendoscopy
This test involves inspecting the inside of your nasal passages and sinuses using an endoscope, a thin, fibre-optic viewing instrument.
Imaging tests
Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT or MRI scans may be conducted to view your nasal passages and sinuses to reveal any mucus blockage or abnormal nose structures.
Allergy tests & Blood tests
Upon receiving a diagnosis, we will guide you through the several treatment options we offer and propose a treatment plan specific to your condition.
Treatment Options for Sinusitis
Most sinusitis cases are caused by viral infections and may not require treatment as the symptoms usually go away on their own.
However, there are also various treatment options available that aid in alleviating symptoms and easing any discomfort. Some of the common treatment options include:
Medication
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Oral or injected corticosteroids
- Allergy medications
- Pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Antibiotics
Home remedies
- Perform a nasal saline rinse using salt water to wash away irritants and clear thick mucus from the nose
- Drink a lot of water to stay hydrated and thin mucus
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
- Apply a warm compress on your nose and forehead to relieve the pressure in your sinuses.
Surgical methods
For certain severe cases, surgery may be required if the symptoms do not improve with time or medication. Surgery may include functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), which is a minimally invasive surgery done through the nose to enlarge the nasal drainage passage and clear the sinuses or remove polyps that may be blocking the sinuses. Alternatively, septoplasty may be performed to treat a deviated nasal septum.
When Should You See An ENT Specialist In Singapore??
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Any Ear, Nose or Throat symptoms that you are troubled with or concerned of
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Persistent blocked nose with mouth breathing or snoring
visit us today
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Our Main Clinic
Feel free to drop by our clinic and meet our specialist
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Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre 3 Mount Elizabeth #09-03, Singapore 228510
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Other Practice Locations
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
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3 Mount Elizabeth #09-05 Singapore 228510
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Parkway East Medical Centre
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319 Joo Chiat Place #03-02 Singapore 427989
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Mount Alvernia Medical Centre D
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820 Thomson Road #08-63 Singapore 574623
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is sinusitis serious? When should I visit a doctor?
Most sinus infections typically last from a few days to a couple of weeks and are not a serious medical concern. However, if symptoms persist for prolonged periods and are left untreated, sinusitis can lead to further complications.
You should seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen, persist for an extended period of time or if they impede your daily functions to a great extent.
What increases the risks of sinusitis?
- Infected tooth
- Fungal infection
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system
- Structural abnormalities such as nasal polyps or deviated nasal septum
- Family history of allergies
How to prevent sinusitis?
- Adopt good personal hygiene by washing or sanitising your hands frequently
- Avoid exposure to people with active respiratory infections, such as colds or flu
- Get a flu shot every year
- Treat allergies and colds as soon as possible
- Avoid things that you are allergic to
- Limit exposure to allergens such as smoke or pollen
- Avoid smoking
- Use a humidifier
- Eat a well-balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables
- Exercise regularly
- Drink plenty of water
- Get adequate rest
