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Sinusitis is one of the most frequently searched health conditions in Singapore — and for good reason. Our tropical climate, high humidity, and widespread dust mite exposure create ideal conditions for sinus inflammation. Yet many patients spend months managing symptoms with over-the-counter medication before seeking the help of an ENT Specialist in Singapore.
In this guide, Dr Gan Eng Cern — ENT Specialist Singapore and fellowship-trained rhinologist — explains common concerns about sinusitis: what it is, why your sinuses behave differently in Singapore's climate, how it is diagnosed, what treatment options are available, and when surgery may be the right choice.
Patients often say "Doc, I have sinus." The truth is — everyone has sinuses. What you actually have is sinusitis.
Understanding Your Sinuses
What Are Sinuses?
Sinuses are small, air-filled cavities located in the bones of your face, surrounding the nasal cavity. Because they surround the nose, they are also known as paranasal sinuses. Every person has four pairs of sinuses:
| Sinus Group | Location |
|---|---|
| Frontal sinuses | Behind the forehead |
| Maxillary sinuses | In the cheekbones (largest pair) |
| Ethmoid sinuses | Between the eyes |
| Sphenoid sinuses | Behind the nasal cavity / base of skull |
These air-filled spaces serve several important functions:
- Produce mucus that moisturises the nasal cavity and traps dust, pollutants, and bacteria
- Contain tiny hair-like structures (cilia) that sweep mucus — along with trapped particles — towards the back of the nose
- Reduce the overall weight of the skull
- Contribute to the resonance and quality of the human voice
- Warm and filter the air we breathe before it reaches the lungs
What Is the Difference Between Sinus and Sinusitis?
A very common question in the clinic: patients often say "Doc, I have sinus". The reality is — everyone has sinuses. They are a normal part of human anatomy. What patients actually mean is that they have sinusitis — a condition in which the sinuses become inflamed or infected.
| Normal Sinuses | Sinusitis | |
|---|---|---|
| Mucus flow | Flows freely into nasal cavity | Blocked — mucus cannot drain |
| Sinus lining | Healthy, thin mucous membrane | Inflamed and swollen |
| Symptoms | None | Congestion, facial pain, discharge |
| Cilia function | Normal — sweeps mucus away | Impaired by swelling and infection |
| Treatment needed | No | Depends on type and severity |
What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis — also referred to by its medical term rhinosinusitis — is the inflammation of the lining of the nose and sinuses. It occurs when excess mucus builds up in the sinuses and the tiny drainage openings become blocked.
When the drainage pathways are blocked, mucus accumulates. This stagnant environment encourages the growth of bacteria, viruses, or fungi — leading to infection. The sinuses become inflamed, swollen, and painful.
The causes of blockage include:
- Viral upper respiratory tract infections (common cold or flu) — most common cause
- Bacterial infection — usually secondary to a viral infection that does not resolve
- Allergic rhinitis (sensitive nose) — nasal swelling from allergens like dust mites or pollen blocks sinus drainage
- Nasal polyps — growths in the nasal lining that block drainage pathways
- Deviated nasal septum — a crooked nasal partition that narrows sinus drainage pathways
- Poor immune function — increases susceptibility to sinus infection
- Dental infections — an infected upper tooth can occasionally spread to the maxillary sinus
Types of Sinusitis
Sinusitis is classified primarily by how long it lasts:
| Type | Duration | Typical Cause | Usually Resolves With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acute Sinusitis | Less than 4 weeks | Viral or bacterial | Rest, OTC medication; antibiotics if bacterial |
| Subacute Sinusitis | 4–12 weeks | Bacterial or viral | Antibiotics, nasal sprays |
| Chronic Sinusitis | More than 12 weeks | Allergies, structural issues, bacteria | Medication first; may require surgery |
| Recurrent Sinusitis | 4+ episodes per year | Ongoing triggers (allergies, polyps) | Treat underlying cause; consider surgery |
Acute Sinusitis
The most common type. Usually triggered by a viral upper respiratory infection (cold), acute sinusitis develops when a cold does not resolve within the expected 5–10 days. The sinuses become infected and inflamed.
Key feature: Symptoms worsen after 5 days of a cold, or persist beyond 10 days without improvement. You may experience yellow or green nasal discharge, facial pressure, and a reduced sense of smell.
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis is diagnosed when symptoms last more than 12 weeks — even with medical treatment. This is one of the most common reasons patients are referred to an ENT specialist.
In Singapore, chronic sinusitis is frequently driven by:
- Untreated or undertreated allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps obstructing drainage
- Structural abnormalities such as a deviated septum
- Persistent bacterial biofilms that are resistant to standard antibiotics
Chronic sinusitis affects quality of life significantly — poor sleep, reduced concentration, and persistent fatigue are common. If your symptoms have lasted more than 3 months despite medication, it is time to see an ENT Specialist in Singapore for a proper assessment, including nasal endoscopy.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
Common Symptoms
- Blocked or congested nose — the hallmark symptom
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge (forward or post-nasal drip)
- Facial pain or pressure, especially around the cheeks, forehead, or eyes
- Reduced or loss of sense of smell (hyposmia or anosmia)
- Headache — typically worse when bending forward or lying down
- Pain or pressure in the upper teeth and jaw
- Cough — from post-nasal drip irritating the throat
Additional Symptoms That May Occur
- Ear pressure or fullness — from eustachian tube involvement
- Fatigue and general malaise
- Fever — more common in acute bacterial sinusitis
- Bad breath (halitosis) — from infected mucus draining into the throat
- Sore throat — from chronic post-nasal drip
Sinusitis vs Common Cold — How to Tell the Difference
| Feature | Common Cold | Sinusitis |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5–10 days typically | More than 10 days (acute) or 12 weeks (chronic) |
| Nasal discharge | Clear, watery initially; may thicken | Yellow/green, thick — persistent |
| Facial pain | Mild or absent | Significant — especially cheeks and forehead |
| Fever | Common early on | May occur in bacterial sinusitis |
| Smell loss | Mild, temporary | More pronounced; may persist |
| Treatment | Rest, fluids, OTC medication* | May require antibiotics, nasal sprays, or ENT care |
*OTC (over-the-counter) medications are medicines that can be purchased without a doctor's prescription, such as paracetamol, antihistamines, and decongestants.
Section 5 of 12When Should You See an ENT Specialist?
While many sinus infections resolve on their own or with GP treatment, certain signs indicate you should consult an ENT Specialist Singapore promptly:
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement after a cold
- Symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks — this indicates chronic sinusitis requiring specialist assessment
- Severe facial pain or significant swelling around the eyes or forehead
- High fever (above 39°C) that does not respond to paracetamol
- Sudden severe headache — especially if different from your usual headaches
- Vision changes or swelling around the eye — seek A&E immediately
- Recurrent sinusitis — 4 or more episodes per year
- Loss of smell lasting more than 1–2 weeks
- Symptoms not improving despite completing a course of antibiotics from your GP
You do not need a GP referral to see Dr Gan. As an ENT Specialist Singapore at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Dr Gan accepts direct bookings. Nasal endoscopy — which allows direct visualisation of the sinus drainage pathways — is typically Medisave-claimable.
Read: 7 Signs You Need an ENT Specialist in Singapore: GP vs Specialist Guide (2026)
Section 6 of 12Causes and Risk Factors in Singapore
Several factors increase the risk of developing sinusitis — many of which are particularly prevalent in Singapore:
| Risk Factor | Why It Matters in Singapore |
|---|---|
| Allergic rhinitis (sensitive nose) | Affects an estimated 20% of Singapore's population. Nasal swelling from allergies directly obstructs sinus drainage. |
| Dust mite exposure | Singapore's humidity creates ideal conditions for dust mites. |
| Air conditioning cycling | Moving between hot, humid outdoor air and cold, dry air-conditioned spaces irritates the nasal mucosa. |
| Viral URTIs | Common in Singapore's densely populated environment. |
| Nasal polyps | Chronic inflammation (often from untreated allergic rhinitis) leads to polyp formation, which blocks sinus drainage. |
| Deviated nasal septum | A structural abnormality that narrows sinus drainage pathways. |
| Dental infections | Infection in the upper back teeth can spread to the maxillary (cheek) sinuses. |
| Immune suppression | Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system increase susceptibility to sinus infection. |
Is Sinusitis Contagious?
Sinusitis itself is not contagious. However, the viral infections that trigger it — such as the common cold or influenza — are. A person with a cold can spread the virus to others, who may then develop their own sinus complications. Once sinusitis has developed as a secondary complication, it is no longer transmissible.
Section 7 of 12How Is Sinusitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical history and physical examination by an ENT Specialist. Dr Gan will ask about the duration and nature of your symptoms, any prior treatment, allergies, and relevant medical history.
Nasal Endoscopy (Nose Scope)
Nasal endoscopy is the primary diagnostic tool used by ENT specialists. A thin, flexible tube with a small camera (endoscope) is passed gently through the nostrils to allow direct visualisation of:
- The nasal passages and turbinates (ridges inside the nose)
- The sinus drainage pathways (ostiomeatal complex)
- The presence of nasal polyps, structural abnormalities, or signs of active infection
- The post-nasal space and back of the throat
The procedure takes only a few minutes in the clinic and is generally well-tolerated. A topical anaesthetic spray may be used to improve comfort. Nasal endoscopy is typically Medisave-claimable.
CT Scan of the Sinuses
A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the sinus cavities. It is commonly used to evaluate chronic sinusitis and is typically performed before sinus surgery. CT imaging shows:
- The extent and location of sinus inflammation
- Presence of nasal polyps or mucosal thickening
- Structural anatomy — crucial for safe surgical planning
- Any unusual findings that may require further investigation
Additional Tests
- Allergy skin prick test — to identify specific allergens (dust mites, pollen, pet dander) contributing to rhinosinusitis
- Nasal swab culture — to identify bacteria and determine antibiotic sensitivity
- MRI scan — occasionally requested if a tumour or soft tissue abnormality is suspected
Treatment Options for Sinusitis
Treatment depends on the type of sinusitis, severity, duration, and the underlying cause. Dr Gan tailors treatment to each patient's specific diagnosis — a one-size approach is rarely appropriate for sinus conditions.
Medical Treatment (Non-Surgical)
| Treatment | When Used | How It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Nasal corticosteroid spray | Allergic rhinitis-driven sinusitis; chronic sinusitis; polyps | Reduces nasal and sinus lining inflammation; improves drainage |
| Saline nasal rinse | Acute and chronic sinusitis | Flushes mucus and irritants; keeps drainage pathways clear |
| Oral antibiotics | Bacterial sinusitis (acute or chronic) | Eliminates bacterial infection; prescribed based on culture sensitivity |
| Oral corticosteroids | Significant nasal polyps; severe acute flare-ups | Rapidly reduces swelling; used short-term only |
| Antihistamines | Sinusitis triggered by allergic rhinitis | Reduces allergic inflammation driving sinus blockage |
| Decongestants (short-term) | Acute sinusitis for symptom relief | Reduces nasal swelling; not for long-term use |
| Antifungal treatment | Fungal sinusitis (less common) | Specific to fungal species identified on culture |
Home Remedies for Sinusitis
Several home measures can help relieve mild symptoms and support recovery alongside medical treatment:
- Saline nasal rinse — use a commercially available saline solution or make your own with sterile water and non-iodised salt. Rinse twice daily to flush out mucus and reduce inflammation.
- Steam inhalation — inhale steam from a bowl of hot water (head covered with a towel) for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily. This helps loosen mucus and ease congestion.
- Warm compress — apply a warm face cloth over the cheeks and forehead to relieve sinus pressure and facial pain.
- Stay hydrated — adequate fluid intake keeps mucus thin and easier to drain.
- Elevate your head during sleep — use an extra pillow to encourage sinus drainage overnight.
- Avoid known triggers — dust, smoke, strong fragrances, and rapid temperature changes can worsen symptoms.
Home remedies are helpful for mild symptoms but should not replace medical assessment if your symptoms last more than 10 days, worsen significantly, or include high fever. An ENT Specialist in Singapore can identify the underlying cause — allergies, polyps, or structural issues — that home remedies cannot address.
Surgical Treatment — FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)
For patients with chronic sinusitis that has not responded to 12 weeks or more of medical treatment, or for those with significant nasal polyps or structural abnormalities, surgery may be recommended.
FESS is the gold standard surgical approach. Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), performed under general anaesthesia, uses a thin endoscope passed through the nostrils to remove polyps, open blocked sinus drainage pathways, and clear diseased tissue. This is done without external incisions. Dr Gan completed a fellowship in rhinology and endoscopic skull base surgery at St Paul's Sinus Centre, University of British Columbia.
Surgery is typically considered when:
- Chronic sinusitis does not improve after 12 weeks of appropriate medical treatment
- Significant nasal polyps are obstructing drainage or causing ongoing symptoms
- CT scan shows structural abnormalities not manageable with medication
- Recurrent acute sinusitis (4+ episodes per year) is significantly impacting quality of life
- Rare but serious complications of sinusitis arise (e.g. orbital or intracranial involvement)
FESS is performed under general anaesthesia and usually requires a 1-night hospitalisation stay. Most patients return home the next day after surgery. Medisave and major Integrated Shield Plans can be used for the procedure. Dr Gan's team will assist with pre-authorisation and claims paperwork. Most patients require between 3 and 6 post-operative endoscopic cleaning sessions in the weeks after surgery — these follow-ups are an important part of long-term outcomes.
Sinusitis in Children — A Guide for Parents
Children are particularly susceptible to sinusitis because their immune systems are still developing and their sinus drainage pathways are proportionally narrower. If you notice your child showing the following symptoms, consult an ENT Specialist Singapore for assessment:
Symptoms to Watch For in Children
- Cold-like symptoms (blocked nose, runny nose) lasting more than 10 days without improvement
- Yellow or green nasal discharge persisting for over a week
- Facial pain or headache — children may present this as general irritability or reluctance to bend forward
- Nasal congestion affecting sleep — snoring or mouth breathing at night
- Persistent cough from post-nasal drip, especially at night
- Reduced appetite due to difficulty breathing through the nose while eating
Common Causes of Sinusitis in Singapore Children
- Allergic rhinitis — the most common predisposing factor in Singapore children; often mistaken for recurring colds
- Frequent viral upper respiratory infections — especially in children attending school or childcare
- Enlarged adenoids — adenoid tissue at the back of the nose can obstruct sinus drainage
- Secondhand smoke exposure
Treatment for Children
Treatment for paediatric sinusitis follows a conservative-first approach: saline rinses, nasal sprays, and treating underlying allergic rhinitis are preferred before considering antibiotics. Surgery for children is reserved for cases where chronic sinusitis significantly impacts quality of life and does not respond to extended medical treatment.
Section 10 of 12What Happens If Sinusitis Is Left Untreated?
Most sinusitis cases resolve with appropriate treatment. However, leaving sinusitis untreated — particularly chronic or bacterial sinusitis — carries real risks:
- Spread to the orbit (eye socket) — orbital cellulitis, a serious complication requiring urgent treatment
- Spread to the brain — meningitis or brain abscess (rare but life-threatening)
- Chronic nasal polyps — persistent inflammation leads to polyp formation, further worsening sinus drainage
- Permanent loss of smell — anosmia from long-standing inflammation of the olfactory nerves
- Osteomyelitis — infection spreading to the surrounding facial bones
- Pott's Puffy Tumour — a rare but serious forehead swelling caused by frontal sinus infection spreading to bone
If you develop sudden severe headache, high fever, vision changes, swelling around the eye, or facial swelling alongside sinus symptoms — seek emergency care immediately. These may indicate serious complications of sinusitis.
Can Sinusitis Be Prevented?
While not all sinusitis episodes are preventable, the following measures significantly reduce risk:
- Treat allergic rhinitis proactively — many patients develop sinusitis because their rhinitis is undertreated. Nasal steroid sprays and antihistamines, used consistently, reduce the nasal swelling that obstructs sinus drainage.
- Regular saline nasal rinses — twice daily rinsing keeps drainage pathways clear and flushes out dust, allergens, and pollutants.
- Maintain good indoor air quality — use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers; wash bedding weekly in hot water to reduce dust mite exposure.
- Keep home humidity moderate — use a dehumidifier if indoor humidity exceeds 70%.
- Practise good hand hygiene — wash hands frequently to reduce transmission of viral upper respiratory infections.
- Avoid known environmental triggers — cigarette smoke, strong chemical fumes, and certain perfumes can irritate the nasal lining.
- Address structural issues — if you have a significantly deviated nasal septum or nasal polyps, treating them can prevent recurrent sinusitis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sinusitis in Singapore
Acute viral sinusitis usually resolves on its own within 10 days with rest and supportive care. Bacterial sinusitis requires antibiotics. Chronic sinusitis — lasting more than 12 weeks — rarely resolves without targeted treatment and often requires assessment by an ENT Specialist.
No. A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Sinusitis is a complication or consequence of a cold — it occurs when the viral infection triggers inflammation and blockage in the sinus drainage pathways. Sinusitis lasts significantly longer than a cold and may require different treatment.
Yes. Medisave can be used for approved surgical procedures including FESS, septoplasty, and turbinate reduction when performed at an accredited clinic such as Dr Gan's practice at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital. Nasal endoscopy (nose scope) is also typically Medisave-claimable. Our clinic team will assist with pre-authorisation and claims. For more information on costs, see our ENT Specialist cost guide.
Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal lining (the nose itself), typically caused by allergies or irritants. Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus cavities, which often develops as a consequence of untreated rhinitis. Many patients in Singapore have both conditions simultaneously — known as rhinosinusitis. Treating the rhinitis is often the key to resolving the sinusitis.
Acute sinusitis: typically 7–14 days. Subacute: up to 12 weeks. Chronic: more than 12 weeks by definition. Recurrent sinusitis involves multiple short episodes throughout the year. If your symptoms have lasted more than 3 months, you likely have chronic sinusitis and should seek ENT assessment.
No. Dr Gan's clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital accepts direct patient bookings without a referral. You may call +65 6253 7296 or contact us via WhatsApp to arrange an appointment. If your corporate insurance requires a GP referral for claims purposes, please check with your insurer in advance.
- Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses — not the sinuses themselves. Most cases follow a viral cold; bacterial infection is a secondary complication.
- Acute sinusitis typically resolves in under 4 weeks. Chronic sinusitis is defined as symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks and warrants ENT assessment.
- In Singapore, the leading driver of chronic sinus disease is undertreated allergic rhinitis. Treating the rhinitis is often the key to resolving the sinusitis.
- Nasal endoscopy is the primary diagnostic tool — performed in the clinic, takes a few minutes, and is typically Medisave-claimable.
- FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery) is reserved for chronic sinusitis that has not responded to 12+ weeks of medical treatment, significant nasal polyps, or structural disease. Most patients require 3 to 6 post-operative cleaning sessions as part of recovery.
- No GP referral is needed for a private ENT consultation in Singapore. Same-day assessment is appropriate for severe facial swelling, vision changes, or sudden severe headache with sinus symptoms.
About Dr Gan Eng Cern
This article is medically reviewed by Dr Gan Eng Cern, a fellowship-trained ENT specialist and rhinologist practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital in Singapore.
Dr Gan's subspecialty focus is rhinology (nose and sinus conditions) and endoscopic skull base surgery. He completed his rhinology fellowship at the St Paul's Sinus Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, funded by the Health Manpower Development Programme (HMDP) Award from the Ministry of Health, Singapore. Before entering private practice, he served as the Deputy Director of the Rhinology Service at Changi General Hospital (2013–2017).
He holds an MBBS (University of New South Wales), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed in ENT (NUS), and FAMS. He has numerous publications in peer-reviewed international ENT journals and textbook chapters, and was a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Subspecialty | Rhinology (nose & sinus) · Endoscopic skull base surgery |
| Location | 38 Irrawaddy Road, #08-45, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore 329563 |
| Consultation Fee | SGD$196.20 (inclusive of GST) within 30 minutes |
| Clinic Hours | Mon–Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm · Sat: 8:30am – 12:00pm |
| Languages | English, Hokkien, Malay, Mandarin (limited) |
| Referral Required? | No — direct consultation available |
| Medisave | Accredited — eligible procedures claimable |
| Insurance Panels | NTUC Income (IncomeShield) · Singlife · MHC Network · Allianz Care · Alliance Medinet · iXchange · Parkway Shenton |
For Dr Gan's full profile — qualifications, research, awards, teaching appointments, and publications — visit About Dr Gan Eng Cern.
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ENT Specialist & Rhinologist · Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
Contact the clinic
Call 6253 7296 during clinic hours or WhatsApp +65 9058 2480 at any time. No referral letter required.
Arrange a consultation
Clinic staff can assist with insurance pre-authorisation, Letters of Guarantee (LOG), and Medisave eligibility before your visit.
Visit the clinic
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Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for a formal clinical assessment by a qualified specialist. Please consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment recommendations specific to your condition. In an emergency, go to the nearest A&E department or call 995.
Last updated: April 30, 2026 · © Dr Gan Eng Cern ENT Clinic
