What are the first signs of chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis involves ongoing inflammation in the nose and sinus spaces. Congestion may affect one or both sides, and mucus can drain into the throat. Facial pressure may be felt around the cheeks, eyes, forehead, or teeth, while smell can become weaker.

Symptoms may fluctuate and can overlap with allergic rhinitis or repeated viral infections. Snoring, mouth breathing, throat clearing, and coughing up phlegm may accompany nasal blockage. The pattern and examination help distinguish likely causes.

Arrange a GP consultation if blockage, drainage, facial pressure, or reduced smell persists or keeps returning. Note whether symptoms are seasonal, follow dust exposure, affect sleep, or occur mainly on one side.

A clinician may examine the nose and throat, review medicines and allergies, and consider allergy testing. Saline rinsing or prescribed nasal treatment may help some people; use products according to professional instructions, especially if you have other conditions.

Seek urgent help for swelling around an eye, vision changes, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, or marked facial swelling. Prompt review is also appropriate for high fever, severe one-sided facial pain, or symptoms that worsen quickly.

Ask whether allergies, nasal polyps, infection, or another problem could explain the pattern, whether allergy testing is useful, and which nasal treatments suit you. Mention reduced smell, one-sided blockage, sleep disruption, and dental or facial pain.