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Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & FAQs by ENT Specialists in Dubai
Sinusitis, commonly referred to as a sinus infection, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the sinus cavities air filled spaces inside your skull become inflamed or infected due to viruses, bacteria, allergies, or even structural problems in the nose. If you're suffering from nasal congestion, facial pressure, headache, or a blocked nose, it might be more than just a cold it could be sinusitis.
In this article, ENT specialists in Dubai share everything about sinusitis, including whether it’s contagious, its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and when to seek professional help.
IS SINUSITIS CONTAGIOUS?
Sinusitis can sometimes be contagious, but it depends on the underlying cause of the infection.
Viral sinusitis is contagious. The virus that causes sinusitis can spread to others, usually through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. However, even if someone else catches the virus, it does not guarantee they’ll develop sinusitis; most commonly, they may experience a cold or flu.
Bacterial or fungal sinusitis is not contagious. These types are caused by bacteria or fungi multiplying inside blocked sinuses and typically do not spread from person to person.
ARE SINUSITIS AND RHINITIS THE SAME?
No, sinusitis and rhinitis are two distinct medical conditions, although they can occur simultaneously. Sinusitis refers to the inflammation and infection of the sinus cavities, while rhinitis involves inflammation of the nasal lining, often caused by allergies (allergic rhinitis) or irritants (non-allergic rhinitis). Understanding the difference between the two is essential for getting the appropriate treatment.
ARE SINUSITIS AND SINUS INFECTION THE SAME THING?
Yes, sinusitis and sinus infection refer to the same condition. Both involve:
- Inflammation of the sinus linings
- Mucosal swelling
- Blocked drainage pathways
When the sinus openings are blocked, bacteria or viruses can multiply inside, causing infection and pressure buildup.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SINUSITIS?
To be diagnosed with sinusitis, you must have at least two or more of the following symptoms:
- Nasal blockage, obstruction, or a clogged nose
- Nasal discharge (runny nose or postnasal drip)
- Facial pain or headache
- Loss or altered sense of smell
- Cough (especially worse at night)
These symptoms can last from a few days (acute sinusitis) to several weeks or even months (chronic sinusitis).
HOW IS SINUSITIS DIAGNOSED BY ENT SPECIALISTS?
If you’re experiencing persistent sinus symptoms, visit an ENT specialist in Dubai. Diagnosis typically involves:
- Detailed clinical history of your symptoms
- Nasal endoscopy: Using a rigid or flexible scope to examine inside the nose
- Looking for conditions such as: Deviated nasal septum, Mucus accumulation
- Polyps or tumors
- Radiological imaging: A CT scan, MRI, or X-ray may be recommended for accurate assessment of the sinus anatomy
WHAT IS THE BEST TREATMENT FOR SINUSITIS?
The treatment for sinusitis depends on the cause and severity of the condition:
1. Allergy-related Sinusitis
- Oral antihistamines
- Nasal steroid sprays
- Decongestant drops
- Immunotherapy (for long-term allergy control)
2. Bacterial Sinusitis
- Antibiotic therapy
- Nasal and oral decongestants
- Pain relievers
3. Chronic Sinusitis or Structural Problems
If medications fail or there are anatomical deformities (e.g., deviated septum, nasal polyps), your doctor may recommend sinus surgery such as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).
CAN SINUSITIS CAUSE FEVER?
Yes. In cases of acute viral or bacterial sinusitis, you may experience a high fever, especially during the early days of the infection. Chronic sinusitis typically does not cause fever.
CAN SINUSITIS CAUSE DIZZINESS?
No, sinusitis does not typically cause dizziness. Dizziness or vertigo is more often associated with inner ear disorders, such as vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis.
CAN SINUSITIS AFFECT THE EYES?
Yes, severe or untreated sinusitis can lead to complications such as pressure behind the eyes, eye pain, redness and swelling, bulging of the eye (proptosis), and in extreme cases, double vision or even vision loss.
This occurs when the infection spreads to the eye socket (orbit).
DOES SINUSITIS TRIGGER MIGRAINES?
Sinusitis does not cause migraines, but it can make migraine symptoms worse by increasing nasal pressure and inflammation. Many people confuse sinus headaches with migraines due to overlapping symptoms.
CAN SINUSITIS CAUSE LOSS OF SMELL?
Yes. The olfactory nerves responsible for smell are located at the top of the nasal cavity. When the nose is congested due to sinusitis or infection, mucus and swelling prevent odor molecules from reaching these nerves, resulting in temporary loss of smell (anosmia).
HOW DOES SINUSITIS CAUSE HEADACHE?
The sinus cavities are air-filled spaces in the facial bones. When these cavities are blocked and filled with mucus, it causes pressure and leads to pain in the forehead, behind the eyes, cheeks, and upper teeth.
IS SALINE NASAL IRRIGATION EFFECTIVE FOR SINUSITIS?
Absolutely. Saline nasal washes are highly effective in loosening and clearing thick mucus, reducing nasal congestion, and flushing out irritants and allergens. They are commonly recommended as part of both preventive care and active treatment for sinusitis.
WHAT TO DO WHEN SINUSITIS DOESN’T GO AWAY?
If sinusitis persists for more than 12 weeks despite medical treatment, it is classified as chronic sinusitis. Common causes include dental infections, nasal polyps or tumors, persistent allergies, and a deviated nasal septum. To determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment, it's important to consult an ENT specialist for a detailed nasal examination, a CT scan of the sinuses, and an endoscopic evaluation. Based on findings, your ENT may offer medical or surgical solutions.
WHO CAN DIAGNOSE AND TREAT SINUSITIS?
If you experience persistent:
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Facial pain-loss of smell
You should consult a qualified ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) specialist.
At our ENT clinic in Dubai, our team of board-certified doctors provides accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment for all types of sinus infections using the latest endoscopic techniques and imaging tools.
CONSULT THE BEST ENT DOCTOR IN DUBAI
If you or a loved one is struggling with persistent earache, it could be more than just discomfort early evaluation and treatment may offer lasting relief.
Our team of the Best ENT doctors in Dubai, at Tarabichi Healthcare is committed to delivering world-class care with precision and compassion.
Meet our dedicated specialists: Dr. Muaaz Tarabichi, Dr. Michael Timms, Dr. Mustafa Kapadia, Dr. Satish Jain, Dr. Nazik Elfadil and Dr. Jamal Kassouma.
We provide minimally invasive treatments tailored to your condition, with a strong focus on safety, accuracy, and long-term results.
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