Sinusitis Treatment in Seomyeon, Busan

Sinusitis treatment relieves inflammation or infection of the sinuses, the air spaces around the nose, which causes facial pressure, thick nasal discharge, blockage and reduced smell. At Seomyeon ENT clinics, assessment usually includes nasal endoscopy and sometimes an X-ray or CT. Most acute cases settle within 1–4 weeks with medication; chronic sinusitis may need longer treatment or endoscopic sinus surgery.

Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:

What is sinusitis?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the cheekbones, forehead and between the eyes, lined with mucus-producing tissue that drains into the nose. When the lining swells, often after a cold or due to allergies, drainage is blocked and mucus builds up, sometimes becoming infected. Acute sinusitis is usually viral and short-lived. Chronic rhinosinusitis lasts 12 weeks or more and may occur with or without nasal polyps.

Symptoms and when to see a doctor

• Blocked nose and thick yellow or green discharge
• Pressure or pain in the cheeks, forehead or around the eyes
• Reduced or lost sense of smell
• Postnasal drip, cough, bad breath or upper tooth pain

See a doctor if symptoms last more than 10 days, worsen after initially improving, or recur frequently. Seek urgent care for swelling around the eye, double vision, severe headache, neck stiffness or confusion.

What happens at the clinic

1. Examination: nasal endoscopy shows swelling, pus or polyps at the sinus openings.
2. Imaging: X-ray may be used initially; CT gives detail for chronic disease or surgical planning.
3. In-clinic care: nasal suction and nebulisation are commonly offered in Korean ENT clinics.
4. Medication: saline rinses and steroid sprays; antibiotics when bacterial infection is likely; short oral steroid courses in selected cases.
5. Surgery: endoscopic sinus surgery widens drainage pathways when medical treatment fails.

Treatment outlook

Most acute sinusitis resolves within one to four weeks. Chronic sinusitis often needs a longer course of rinses and sprays; many people improve significantly, and surgery helps those who do not. Controlling allergies and avoiding smoke reduces recurrences.

Risks and side effects

Antibiotics can cause stomach upset and should be used only when needed. Sinus surgery is generally safe but carries risks such as bleeding, scarring and, rarely, injury to the eye or skull base.

Choosing a clinic for sinusitis in Seomyeon

• Ask whether nasal endoscopy is done at the first visit.
• For chronic symptoms, ask whether a CT scan is recommended.
• Ask how to perform saline irrigation correctly.
• If surgery is suggested, ask about the surgeon's experience with endoscopic sinus surgery and image guidance.
• Ask whether dental causes of one-sided sinusitis have been considered.

Visitors with sinus flares

Flights can worsen sinus pressure. A quick ENT visit near Seomyeon Station can provide relief before travelling on, with clinics close to the Line 1 and 2 interchange.

Key facts

• Types: acute (under 4 weeks), recurrent, chronic (12 weeks or more)
• Korean term: 부비동염 (often called 축농증)
• Diagnosis: nasal endoscopy; X-ray or CT for chronic or complicated cases
• Medical treatment: saline irrigation, steroid sprays, antibiotics when bacterial
• Surgery: functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for persistent disease
• Red flags: eye swelling, vision change, severe headache, high fever

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if sinusitis is bacterial?

Symptoms lasting more than 10 days, worsening after initial improvement, or high fever with facial pain suggest bacterial infection. A doctor will decide whether antibiotics are needed.

How long does sinusitis last?

Acute sinusitis usually clears within one to four weeks. Chronic sinusitis lasts 12 weeks or longer and needs ongoing management.

Does saline rinse really help sinusitis?

Yes. Regular saline irrigation clears mucus and allergens and is a key part of treatment for both acute and chronic sinusitis.

When is sinus surgery needed?

Surgery is considered for chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps that do not respond to adequate medical treatment, or for complications.

Can I fly with sinusitis?

Flying can increase sinus pain due to pressure changes. Using a decongestant spray before descent and saline rinses may help; ask your doctor first.

Related treatments in Seomyeon

• Nasal Polyp Removal in Seomyeon
• Rhinitis Treatment in Seomyeon
• Septoplasty in Seomyeon
• Allergic Rhinitis Treatment in Seomyeon
• Dental Bone Grafting in Seomyeon
• All ENT Care in Seomyeon

Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.