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Chronic Sinusitis: Symptoms and When FESS Surgery Can Help

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Chronic Sinusitis: Symptoms and When FESS Surgery Can Help

Most people get the occasional blocked or runny nose with a cold. But when sinus symptoms last for weeks or keep coming back, you may have chronic sinusitis — long-term inflammation of the sinuses that can affect breathing, sleep and quality of life.

What is chronic sinusitis?

Sinusitis is inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces behind your forehead, cheeks and nose. It's called chronic when symptoms last 12 weeks or longer despite treatment.

Common symptoms

  • A blocked or stuffy nose
  • Thick nasal discharge or post-nasal drip
  • Facial pain, pressure or fullness around the eyes and cheeks
  • A reduced sense of smell and taste
  • Headache, bad breath or a persistent cough

How is it treated?

Most cases improve with non-surgical treatment first:

  • Saline nasal rinses
  • Steroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation
  • Medication for allergies or infection where needed

When is surgery (FESS) recommended?

If symptoms persist despite medication — or if there are nasal polyps or structural blockages — your ENT specialist may recommend Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). Using a thin endoscope passed through the nostrils, the surgeon clears blockages and opens the sinus drainage pathways. There are no external cuts, and most people recover quickly.

Did you know? A deviated nasal septum can make sinusitis worse. FESS is sometimes combined with septoplasty to improve airflow and drainage.

How we can help

Our ENT department diagnoses and treats sinus problems with both medical and surgical options, including endoscopic FESS for chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific condition.
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Talk to our specialists at Global Multispeciality Hospital, Dighi. Book an appointment or learn more about our ENT department.