Chronic sinusitis

First, check the cause

Chronic sinusitis means the lining of the nose and sinuses stays swollen for 12 weeks or more. Allergies, nasal polyps, a bent wall inside the nose (deviated septum) and asthma can all play a part.

How it is treated

• Rinsing the nose with salt water every day.
• A steroid nose spray, used every day. Salt-water rinses and steroid sprays help the most people.
• Treating allergies or asthma, if you have them.
• Antibiotics only when there is a bacterial infection. They do not treat the long-term swelling.
• Acupuncture: very thin needles. It helps open a blocked nose and eases face pressure and headache, working alongside rinses and sprays.
• Chinese herbs, prescribed for your pattern, to open the nose and help clear thick mucus. They are checked against the medicines you already take.
• A referral to an ENT specialist, and a CT scan, when needed. Some people need surgery, for example for polyps.

How many visits

Usually once a week at first. Six to eight visits make a course; then you and Dr. Pan look at how much better you are: easier breathing through the nose, less face pressure, a better sense of smell.

Common questions

Do I need antibiotics?

Only when there is a bacterial infection. For long-term sinusitis, daily rinses and a steroid spray do more, without the side effects of antibiotics.

Do I need a CT scan?

Only if needed. A CT scan, or a look inside the nose by an ENT specialist, confirms it. Dr. Pan will refer you when needed.

Can I use acupuncture with my nose spray?

Yes — they work well together, and together they work better. Keep using your spray as prescribed; never stop any medicine on your own.