Sinus (PNS) X-ray
Quick answer: A sinus X-ray, also called a PNS X-ray, shows the air-filled spaces around the nose, cheeks and forehead. Doctors sometimes order it for long-standing sinus symptoms such as blocked nose, facial pain or headache. CT scans are now often preferred for detail.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 5 to 10 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed, but remove metal items from the area and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
How the test is done
- 1You remove glasses, earrings, hairpins and dentures if you wear them
- 2You sit or stand facing the upright plate
- 3Your chin is tilted up and rested on the plate, sometimes with your mouth open
- 4You stay still for a second while each picture is taken
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A radiologist reports on the images, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
A sinus X-ray can show thickened lining, fluid levels or a sinus that looks cloudy instead of dark, which can be seen with sinusitis, polyps or other blockage. It shows less detail than a CT scan, so a normal X-ray does not rule out sinus disease.
Who usually has this test
People with long-standing blocked nose, facial pressure, headache over the cheeks or forehead, or repeated sinus infections.
Risks and aftercare
The picture is not felt; X-ray dose to the head is small, but tell staff if you might be pregnant.
Names and options
Also called: PNS X-ray, paranasal sinus X-ray, Waters view, Caldwell view
Options
- Standard view
- Face-down angled view (Waters view)
- Forehead view (Caldwell view)
- Side view (lateral)
Listed by the hospital as
- CALD WELL DIGITAL X-RAY
- PNS DIGITAL X-RAY
- PNS LATERAL VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
- PNS WATERS VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
What does PNS mean on an X-ray request?
PNS stands for paranasal sinuses, the air spaces around the nose, cheeks and forehead. A PNS X-ray is the same as a sinus X-ray.
Why is my chin raised for a sinus X-ray?
Tilting the head back moves the dense bones at the base of the skull out of the way. This lets the cheek sinuses be seen more clearly.
Is a CT scan better than an X-ray for sinusitis?
A CT scan shows the sinuses in much more detail and is often used before sinus surgery. For simple short-term sinusitis, doctors often diagnose from symptoms alone without any imaging.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.