Sinusitis Diagnosis and Treatment

Expert care for sinus inflammation affecting nasal passages and facial cavities

Our specialist team provides comprehensive assessment and treatment for sinusitis in both children and adults. Led by Professor Gideon Lack, we combine pioneering research with personalised care plans to help you manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Comprehensive diagnosis to identify underlying causes and triggers
Evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your specific condition
Expert guidance to prevent and manage sinusitis episodes
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What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is inflammation of the lining in the air-filled cavities (sinuses) within the bones of your face. These paranasal sinuses are located around your nose and normally help warm and control humidity of air reaching your lungs. They produce mucus that drains into your nose through small ducts. When these ducts become obstructed, mucus can become trapped and potentially infected. Sinusitis can be classified as Acute (clears up within 12 weeks) or Chronic (persists for more than 12 weeks).

Common symptoms

Primary symptoms
  • Blocked nose and nasal congestion
  • Thick, coloured nasal discharge
  • Facial pain and tenderness, worse when leaning forward
  • Headaches or toothache
  • Reduced sense of smell and taste
In children
  • Mouth breathing and feeding difficulties
  • Irritability and disturbed sleep
  • Nasal-sounding speech
  • Frequent respiratory infections
Additional symptoms
  • Fatigue and general malaise
  • Night-time cough
  • Ear pressure
  • Bad breath
  • Post-nasal drip

Common triggers

Various factors can contribute to the development of sinusitis:
  • Allergies: Hay fever, pet allergies, and other allergic conditions
  • Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal
  • Structural issues: Nasal polyps, deviated septum, or facial trauma
  • Environmental factors: Tobacco smoke, pollutants, and chemical irritants
  • Underlying conditions: Rarely, cystic fibrosis or immune deficiencies

Impact on daily life

Sinusitis can significantly affect quality of life:
For children:
  • Disrupted sleep leading to daytime fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating in school
  • Limited participation in activities
  • Increased irritability and mood changes
For adults:
  • Reduced productivity at work
  • Chronic fatigue and poor sleep quality
  • Social withdrawal during flare-ups
  • Time lost from work or family responsibilities

When to seek specialist care

While occasional sinusitis symptoms may resolve with self-care, consider specialist assessment if you experience:
  • Symptoms persisting beyond 10-14 days
  • Recurring episodes of sinusitis
  • Severe facial pain or headaches
  • Symptoms not responding to over-the-counter treatments
  • Persistent high fever
  • Vision changes or swelling around the eyes
  • Previous sinusitis treatments that haven't provided relief
For children, seek help if they show persistent nasal symptoms, breathing difficulties, irritability, or sleep disruption.
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How we can help

Our approach combines comprehensive assessment with personalised treatment plans that address both immediate symptoms and underlying allergic causes of sinusitis.
Comprehensive allergy assessment
Our specialists begin with a thorough evaluation:
Sinusitis symptom assessment and physical examination
Specific allergy testing to identify triggers contributing to sinusitis
Referral for advanced diagnostic imaging (CT or MRI) when needed
Effective treatments
We provide evidence-based treatments targeting both symptoms and allergic causes:
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce nasal inflammation
Targeted antihistamines to control underlying allergic reactions
Allergen immunotherapy to desensitise you to specific triggers
Practical management strategies
We'll help you develop strategies to prevent recurrence:
Allergen avoidance plans for your specific triggers
Seasonal management for pollen-triggered sinusitis
Preventive medication regimens for high-risk periods

Why choose LACK Clinic for sinusitis care?

Our unique approach to allergy care offers:
Specialist focus on allergic causes of sinusitis
Thorough investigation using advanced diagnostic techniques
Personalised treatment plans for lasting relief
Comprehensive care for both children and adults
Coordination with ENT specialists when needed
Flexible appointment options at our London clinics
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Eczema
“As far as our family is concerned, Professor Lack is a miracle worker. We trust his advice implicitly and are very lucky to have him as our daughter’s specialist.”
Eczema
28th Sept 2024
Eczema
verified patient

Pioneering research, personalised care

At LACK Allergy Clinic, we're dedicated to transforming lives through early intervention and innovative therapies. Professor Lack's groundbreaking research informs our approach to allergic conditions, ensuring you receive the most effective, evidence-based care for your sinusitis.
More About the LACK Clinic

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between sinusitis and a common cold?
While colds and sinusitis share symptoms like nasal congestion and discharge, sinusitis typically involves facial pain, pressure, and tenderness not commonly seen with colds. Sinusitis symptoms usually last longer (beyond 10 days) and may include thicker, coloured nasal discharge. Cold symptoms generally improve after 7-10 days, while sinusitis symptoms persist or worsen. Our specialists can help differentiate between these conditions and recommend appropriate treatment.
Can allergies cause sinusitis?
Yes, allergies are a common trigger for sinusitis. When allergic reactions cause nasal passage inflammation, this can block sinus drainage pathways, creating ideal conditions for sinusitis development. By treating the underlying allergies rather than just the sinusitis symptoms, we can often provide more effective and longer-lasting relief.
How is sinusitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and evaluation of symptoms.

  • Nasal endoscopy to visualise the inside of sinuses
  • Allergy testing to identify potential triggers
  • Imaging studies (CT or MRI scans) to assess sinus structure and inflammation
  • Culture of nasal secretions in cases of suspected bacterial infection

Our specialists select the most appropriate diagnostic approaches based on your specific symptoms and history.

What treatments are most effective for chronic sinusitis?

Treatment for chronic sinusitis typically involves a multi-faceted approach:

  • Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
  • Saline nasal irrigation to improve drainage
  • Antibiotics when bacterial infection is present
  • Antihistamines or immunotherapy for allergy-related cases
  • Leukotriene modifiers for certain inflammatory patterns
  • Surgery in select cases of structural issues or resistant disease

We develop personalised treatment plans based on the specific factors contributing to your chronic sinusitis, focusing on both symptom relief and addressing underlying causes.

Can children develop sinusitis?
Yes, children can develop sinusitis, though their symptoms may differ from adults. Children often present with persistent nasal discharge, cough, irritability, and disturbed sleep. They may not be able to describe facial pain or pressure that adults typically report. Chronic cough, especially at night, may be the primary symptom in some children. Our child-friendly approach ensures appropriate diagnosis and gentle, effective treatments suitable for younger patients.
How can I prevent sinusitis recurrence?

Preventive strategies focus on addressing your specific triggers and improving sinus drainage:

  • Managing allergies effectively with appropriate medications or immunotherapy
  • Maintaining good indoor air quality with proper humidity and filtration
  • Using saline nasal irrigation regularly to keep passages clear
  • Avoiding known irritants like tobacco smoke and strong chemicals
  • Practicing good hand hygiene to reduce viral infections
  • Treating nasal symptoms early before they progress to sinusitis

Our specialists provide personalised prevention plans based on your individual risk factors and triggers.

Ready to find relief from sinusitis?

Our specialist team is here to help you identify underlying causes of your sinusitis and develop an effective treatment plan for lasting relief.
Speak to our Team
London Medical 

49 Marylebone High St.
The Portland Hospital 

215 Great Portland Street 

07493 280048 
/ 07765 977819
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