Which specialist treats chronic sinusitis?

An ear, nose and throat specialist, also called an ENT specialist, examines the nose, sinuses and nearby structures. They can assess persistent blocked nose, facial pain and pressure, reduced smell, drainage or coughing linked with mucus. A GP can review your symptoms, examine you and consider conditions such as allergic rhinitis before referral. Allergy testing may be useful when an allergic trigger is suspected. Specialist care can include medicine advice, further examination and discussion of other options when symptoms continue.

Arrange a GP consultation if nasal or sinus symptoms keep returning, interfere with sleep, or do not settle with the plan you were given. Record triggers, treatments tried and whether symptoms affect one or both sides. Use nasal medicines only as directed, because some products are unsuitable for prolonged use. An ENT review is especially helpful when the diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms remain troublesome.

Seek urgent care for swelling around the eye, changes in vision, severe headache with fever, confusion, a stiff neck or rapidly worsening illness. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe facial swelling or difficulty breathing. These warning signs may indicate a problem needing immediate treatment rather than a routine sinus appointment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit chronic sinusitis, whether allergy testing is appropriate, how long to use each treatment, and what would make an ENT referral useful. Ask which symptoms should prompt urgent review and how to protect sleep when congestion or snoring is present.