Singapore’s humid climate and fluctuating temperatures can exacerbate respiratory conditions, particularly chronic sinusitis. Unlike acute sinusitis, which resolves within a few weeks, chronic sinusitis lingers for over 12 weeks, significantly impacting quality of life. We speak to Dr. Ker Liang, ENT Surgeon & Medical Director at Aglow ENT Centre, who sheds light on the condition, its causes, symptoms, and the available treatments to help individuals breathe easier and live more comfortably.

Q: What is chronic sinusitis and how is it different from acute sinusitis?

Singapore is currently experiencing frequent fluctuations in temperatures. Many of us are feeling the effects of the wet and humid climate – not just on our daily routines but also on our health. This unpredictable weather and high humidity levels can exacerbate respiratory conditions, including chronic sinusitis.

Chronic sinusitis is a long-term inflammation of the sinuses, which are the air-filled spaces in the nose and head. In chronic cases, symptoms persist for at least 12 weeks. This differs from acute sinusitis, where most patients recover within four weeks.

Some patients may experience multiple episodes of acute sinusitis before it develops into a chronic condition. Since symptoms of both often overlap, consulting an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist is key to an accurate diagnosis.

Q: What are the primary causes of chronic sinusitis?

The main causes of chronic sinusitis are usually related to an underlying condition that leads to inflammation or blockage in the nasal passages. These typically include allergies, respiratory conditions, abnormal tissue growths (nasal polyps) or structural issues in the nose, such as a deviated septum. In the case of a deviated septum, the partition dividing the nose is severely crooked to one side, blocking one of the airways.

Q: Why might it affect some individuals more than others?

Sinusitis is closely linked to airway inflammation or irritation, which can cause the sinus tissue to swell. This is why certain ENT conditions, such as asthma or allergies, can increase the risk of developing chronic sinusitis. Additionally, habits such as smoking can worsen the condition by continuously exposing the airways to irritants.

Q: How does Singapore’s climate and urban environment contribute to the prevalence of chronic sinusitis?

Beyond an individual’s health, Singapore’s climate can also cause chronic sinusitis. The high humidity levels can easily raise the risk by creating an ideal environment for allergens to thrive. Excess moisture in the air can also cause swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, increasing the risk of sinusitis. Meanwhile, the near-constant use of air conditioning indoors to combat outdoor humidity can create a dry air environment inside. Over time, this can irritate the nasal passages, triggering inflammation of the sinuses.

Q: What are the key symptoms of chronic sinusitis to watch out for?

Many people may be unaware of sinusitis, as its symptoms often resemble a common cold. However, telltale signs of chronic sinusitis include persistent facial tenderness or pain (especially when applying gentle pressure) and thick yellow or green nasal discharge, in addition to typical cold symptoms. If you notice any symptoms lasting more than two weeks or frequently recurring, you are strongly advised to visit an ENT specialist.

Q: What medical advancements or treatments are currently available for managing chronic sinusitis?

Treatment options for chronic sinusitis are widely available. Depending on the severity of your condition, an ENT specialist may prescribe medication, allergy shots (immunotherapy), or minimally invasive surgery.

At Aglow ENT Centre, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally-invasive and effective option for patients who do not respond to medication.

Q: How does chronic sinusitis impact a person’s quality of life, work productivity and overall well-being?

For chronic patients, prolonged facial pain, congestion and other sinusitis symptoms can significantly affect quality of life. In fact, daily discomfort may reduce productivity at work, prevent one from fully engaging in certain physical activities and even result in restless sleep.

Q: Can chronic sinusitis lead to severe complications if left untreated?

If left untreated, there is a risk of infection spreading from the sinuses to the eyes, bones, brain or spine. When that happens, infections affecting vital organs can be life-threatening, such as inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

Q: Does chronic sinusitis link to other conditions such as allergies, asthma or sleep apnea?

Chronic sinusitis can both cause and be caused by other conditions, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms. Certain conditions such as allergies and asthma result in episodes of airway inflammation, which can lead to chronic sinusitis.

At the same time, persistent sinus inflammation and congestion can worsen asthma or contribute to conditions like sleep apnoea (repeated pauses in breathing during sleep).

Q: What lifestyle changes or preventive measures can help reduce the risk of chronic sinusitis?

To reduce the risk of chronic sinusitis, consider using an air purifier and performing nasal irrigation to keep your nasal passages clear and prevent irritation. Maintaining a healthy diet to support your immune system can also help reduce the risk of respiratory infections that may trigger sinusitis.

Q: When should someone experiencing prolonged nasal congestion or recurrent sinus infections seek medical help?

It is advisable to seek medical help for any ENT symptoms, including sinusitis, that persist for several weeks and do not respond to over-the-counter medications. Sinusitis lasting more than 12 weeks may indicate chronic sinusitis, while experiencing it more than four times a year may suggest recurrent infections that require further assessment for complete treatment.

Visit Aglow ENT Centre

For sinusitis treatment in Singapore, you can visit Dr Ker Liang, an experienced ENT head and neck surgeon and Medical Director of Aglow ENT Centre. Dr Ker Liang has over 14 years of experience in the field of Otolaryngology. Dr Ker Liang specialises in treating patients, both children and adults and has a particular interest in sinus surgery and laryngology. She underwent fellowship training under Professor Marc Remacle and is a seasoned Laryngologist well-versed in conditions related to the throat, voice and swallowing.