Sinusitis
التهاب الجيوب الأنفية
Inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, usually following a cold or due to allergies, causing facial pressure, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, and reduced sense of smell. Most acute cases are viral and resolve within a couple of weeks; symptoms lasting longer or recurring frequently may need medical evaluation.
This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick answer
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses — the air-filled spaces around the nose, cheeks and forehead. It most often follows a cold and is usually caused by a virus; less often by bacteria or allergies.
Symptoms include a blocked or runny nose, facial pain or pressure, reduced sense of smell, headache and sometimes fever. Acute sinusitis usually clears within about two to three weeks; chronic sinusitis lasts 12 weeks or more.
Most cases improve with rest, fluids, saline rinses and pain relief; antibiotics are needed only in selected cases. See a doctor for severe symptoms, swelling around the eyes, or symptoms that don't improve.
Symptoms
Blocked or stuffy nose
Thick nasal discharge
Yellow or green mucus does not by itself mean a bacterial infection.
Facial pain, pressure or fullness
Around the cheeks, eyes or forehead, often worse when bending forward.
Reduced sense of smell
Headache
Post-nasal drip and cough
Fever and tiredness
Toothache or ear pressure
Symptom guides
Causes and risk factors
Causes
- Viral infections — Colds are the most common trigger.
- Bacterial infection — Sometimes develops after a viral illness.
- Allergies — Allergic inflammation blocks sinus drainage.
- Structural problems — A deviated septum or nasal polyps can impair drainage.
- Irritants — Smoke and pollution.
Risk factors
- Recent cold or allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps or a deviated septum
- Smoking or exposure to smoke
- Weakened immunity
- Asthma
- Dental infections — Occasionally spreading to the upper sinuses.
How is it diagnosed?
Sinusitis is usually diagnosed from symptoms and examination. Further tests are used for persistent, recurrent or complicated cases.
History and examination
Duration and pattern of symptoms, facial tenderness and looking inside the nose.
Nasal endoscopy
A thin camera to inspect the nasal passages, done by an ENT specialist.
CT scan of the sinuses
For chronic or recurrent sinusitis, or before surgery.
Allergy testing
If allergic triggers are suspected.
Treatment
Most acute sinusitis improves without antibiotics. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and help the sinuses drain; a doctor decides on other treatments.
Rest and fluids
Saline nasal rinses or sprays
Help clear mucus and ease congestion.
Pain and fever relief
Simple analgesics as advised; a warm compress over the face may soothe.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays
Useful especially in allergic or chronic sinusitis.
Antibiotics
Only when a bacterial infection is likely, such as prolonged or worsening symptoms.
Surgery
Considered for chronic sinusitis that doesn't respond to medicines, or for structural problems.
Decongestant sprays should not be used for more than a few days.
When should you see a doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement
- Symptoms that improve and then get worse again
- Repeated sinus infections
- Severe facial pain or high fever
- Symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks
Seek urgent care if
- Swelling, redness or pain around an eye, or double vision
- Severe headache, stiff neck or confusion
- Changes in vision or bulging of the eye
- Swelling of the forehead or face
Prevention
Treat colds and allergies early
Avoid smoke and irritants
Wash hands regularly
To reduce colds.
Use saline rinses if prone to sinusitis
Manage allergies and asthma
Frequently asked questions
What is sinusitis?
Inflammation of the sinuses, often after a cold, causing congestion, facial pain and reduced smell.
How long does sinusitis last?
Acute sinusitis usually improves within two to three weeks; chronic sinusitis lasts 12 weeks or more.
Do I need antibiotics for sinusitis?
Usually not. Most cases are viral and improve on their own; antibiotics are for selected bacterial cases.
Is sinusitis contagious?
The viruses that often trigger it can be contagious, but sinusitis itself is not spread as such.
Can a deviated septum cause sinusitis?
It can impair sinus drainage and contribute to recurrent sinusitis in some people.
When is sinus surgery needed?
For chronic sinusitis that doesn't respond to medical treatment, or to correct structural problems.
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Medical sources
This page summarizes general information from the sources below.