How to treat frontal sinusitis
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Treatment options for frontal sinusitis include medication, nasal irrigation, physical therapy, surgical intervention, and symptomatic supportive care. The appropriate approach should be selected based on whether the condition is acute or chronic and its severity, with the primary goals being elimination of inflammation and symptom relief. If high fever, severe headache, or symptoms lasting more than two weeks occur, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Frontal sinusitis can be treated through various methods, including medication, nasal irrigation, physical therapy, surgery, and symptomatic supportive care. The treatment plan should be selected based on whether the condition is acute or chronic and its severity, with the primary goals being to eliminate inflammation and relieve symptoms. If high fever, severe headache, or symptoms lasting more than two weeks occur, prompt medical attention is recommended.
1. Medication: For acute bacterial frontal sinusitis, antibiotics should be taken as prescribed by a doctor to control infection. Nasal decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion, while intranasal corticosteroids reduce mucosal inflammation. Do not adjust medication dosage without medical guidance.
2. Nasal irrigation: Use normal saline or seawater-based solutions to rinse the nasal cavity 1–2 times daily. This helps clear nasal secretions and pathogens, reduces obstruction of the frontal sinus opening, and alleviates nasal congestion and headache. It is suitable as an adjunctive treatment for both acute and chronic patients.
3. Physical therapy: During acute episodes, local heat application can improve blood circulation in the frontal sinus area and reduce inflammatory swelling. In chronic cases, physical therapies such as infrared irradiation may be used to enhance local metabolism and support resolution of inflammation.
4. Surgical treatment: For chronic frontal sinusitis unresponsive to medication, severe obstruction of the frontal sinus opening, or cases with complications, surgical procedures such as endoscopic frontal sinusotomy can be performed to open drainage pathways and remove diseased tissue.
5. Symptomatic and supportive care: Patients with high fever may take antipyretics as needed; those with severe headaches may use analgesics under medical supervision. Adequate rest, sufficient fluid intake, and enhanced immunity are essential to promote recovery.
In daily life, maintain nasal hygiene and avoid forceful nose-blowing. Avoid exposure to irritants such as dust and cooking fumes. Stay warm to prevent colds, maintain regular sleep patterns to avoid excessive fatigue, and follow a light diet rich in vitamin-containing foods to reduce the risk of recurrent inflammation.
