Is sinusitis serious?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on March 17, 2025
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Sinusitis is a relatively common otolaryngological disease and generally is not very severe. The main clinical symptoms include nasal congestion with thick nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, headache, and dizziness. After onset, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngology department for a sinus CT scan to help determine the extent of the lesion. If the inflammatory response is localized and the clinical symptoms are mild, conservative medical treatment can be considered. Common treatments include oral medications and nasal sprays. During treatment, regular follow-ups are needed to observe the effects. If the inflammatory response is severe and conservative medical treatment is ineffective, surgical treatment may need to be considered.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Does sinusitis affect the eyes?

Sinusitis is a relatively common otorhinolaryngological disease. A small percentage of patients may experience effects on their eyes, leading to decreased vision, orbital abscesses, eye swelling and pain, or visual field defects. There is significant individual variation in clinical symptoms. After the onset of the disease, it is necessary to visit the otorhinolaryngology and ophthalmology departments to assess the severity of the condition. In terms of treatment, some patients may opt for conservative medical treatment. However, for others with more severe conditions where conservative medical treatment proves ineffective, surgical treatment should be considered, followed by regular follow-up exams to observe the outcomes of the surgery.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can sinusitis cause headaches?

Sinusitis, now commonly referred to as sinusitis, is primarily caused by purulent secretions from bacterial infections that irritate structures, leading to symptoms such as toxic headaches and dizziness. During sinusitis, blockage of the sinus openings can cause negative pressure within the sinus cavity, which may also lead to pressurized headaches. Additionally, if sinusitis is accompanied by hypertrophy of the nasal turbinates or a deviated nasal septum, it can stimulate a nerve reflex causing neuralgic headaches. Therefore, it is certain that clinical sinusitis or paranasal sinusitis can cause headaches.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Common symptoms of sinusitis

The symptoms of sinusitis can vary widely, primarily related to the extent of the inflammation and the patient's own immune resistance. It is possible to have no obvious clinical manifestations, mainly in those with good resistance and very mild inflammation. The patient may not experience any significant symptoms, and sinusitis might only be discovered through a sinus CT or a head CT. If the inflammatory response is more noticeable, symptoms may include nasal congestion, purulent nasal discharge, headache, dizziness, and a reduction or loss of smell. Some patients might also experience numbness and a feeling of pressure in the face. Diagnosis typically involves a sinus CT or nasopharyngeal examination, as well as direct visual observation of the nasal cavity and an overall assessment of the patient's condition, followed by targeted treatment.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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What IV fluids are used for sinusitis?

Sinusitis, which we now clinically refer to as sinusitis. When sinusitis acutely flares up, our main treatment is to administer anti-infection medications and corticosteroid drugs. This includes oral medication treatment or intravenous infusion therapy. Clinically, our main approach is the aforementioned medication treatment, and we also conduct CT scans and surgical treatments based on the patient's condition, of course, assessing symptoms before proceeding. Before surgery, preoperative medication preparation is also needed, which involves some infusion therapy, using these medications, including cephalosporin antibiotics and corticosteroid drugs. (The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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How long after sinusitis surgery should a follow-up be conducted?

Sinusitis, which we now generally refer to as sinusitis, is diagnosed based on specific examinations and surgical interventions are considered when indicated. After surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary, along with nasal cavity cleaning to prevent the recurrence of sinusitis. Typically, after discharging the surgical patient, we advise them to return to the clinic for a follow-up after a week. Subsequently, based on specific conditions during the follow-up, patients are instructed to return for further check-ups after two weeks, four weeks, eight weeks, and even up to three months. This process should continue for about half a year, during which regular clinic visits for follow-ups are necessary. During these visits, the doctor will assess the healing of the sinus cavity and schedule the next follow-up appointment accordingly.