Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, can cause a stuffy or runny nose, a decreased sense of smell, and other symptoms. You can usually manage the symptoms at home with a decongestant.

The sinuses are small air pockets located between the eyes and behind the forehead, nose, and cheekbones. When the sinuses and nasal passages become inflamed, it’s known as sinusitis.

Inflammation can occur because of conditions such as structural issues in the nose or a sinus infection. The terms “sinusitis” and “sinus infection” are sometimes used interchangeably.

Keep reading to learn about the symptoms and causes of sinusitis, how to treat it, and when you may need medical attention.

Sinusitis causes fluid buildup in the sinuses. This causes the symptoms of sinusitis, which can be similar to the common cold. Symptoms may include:

If you experience severe or concerning symptoms, it’s best to talk with a doctor rather than try to manage them at home. Some serious health conditions can also have symptoms that may resemble sinusitis.

Sinusitis in a child may cause similar symptoms, such as:

Doctors classify sinusitis in four main ways, and they all have similar symptoms, though the severity and duration can vary.

Acute sinusitis

Acute sinusitis has the shortest duration and resolves on its own.

It can last up to 4 weeks. A viral infection brought on by the common cold may cause symptoms that typically last up to 10 days before starting to improve.

Viral infections eventually lead to most cases of acute sinusitis, but seasonal allergies can also cause it.

Subacute sinusitis

Subacute sinusitis symptoms can last up to 12 weeks. They typically result from seasonal allergies or a bacterial infection requiring medical treatment.

Recurrent acute sinusitis

In recurrent acute sinusitis, you have at least four episodes of acute sinusitis over 1 year. Each episode of acute sinusitis lasts at least 7 days.

Chronic sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis lasts for more than 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis symptoms are often less severe than acute sinusitis symptoms, and fever is rare.

Bacterial infection may be to blame in these cases. Additionally, chronic sinusitis commonly occurs alongside persistent allergies or structural nasal issues.

Different causes can lead to the fluid buildup in the sinuses that occurs with sinusitis. Possible causes can include:

  • viral infections like the common cold
  • seasonal allergies
  • bacterial infections that may require antibiotics to clear

Sometimes, a cold, allergens, or bacteria can cause too much mucus to form. This mucus buildup can become thick and encourage bacteria and other germs to build up in your sinus cavity, eventually leading to a sinus infection.

Sinusitis risk factors

Anyone can develop sinusitis or a sinus infection, but some people are more prone to it than others.

People who may be more likely to get sinusitis include those with:

A doctor typically asks about your symptoms and performs a physical exam before they make a diagnosis. They may check for pressure and tenderness by pressing a finger against your head and cheeks. They may also examine the inside of your nose to look for signs of inflammation.

In most cases, the doctor can diagnose sinusitis based on your symptoms and the physical exam results.

If a doctor thinks you may have chronic sinusitis, they may recommend imaging tests to examine your sinuses and nasal passages. These tests can reveal mucus blockages and any abnormal structures, such as polyps.

  • Imaging tests: Various imaging tests can be used to make a diagnosis.
    • An X-ray provides an image of your sinuses.
    • A CT scan provides a 3-D picture of your sinuses.
    • An MRI uses powerful magnets to create images of internal structures.
  • Nasal endoscopy: The doctor may also use a fiberscope, a lighted tube that passes through your nose, to visualize the inside of your nasal passageways and sinuses directly. During this procedure, the doctor may obtain a sample for culture testing, which can detect the presence of viruses, bacteria, or fungi.
  • Allergy tests: An allergy test identifies environmental factors that may cause an allergic reaction.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests can check for conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV.

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Most sinusitis cases are caused by viral infections and may not require treatment. However, over-the-counter (OTC) medications and home remedies may help ease symptoms.

Nasal congestion

Sinusitis commonly occurs with nasal congestion. These tips may help reduce nasal congestion:

  • To help relieve sinus pressure pain, apply a warm, damp cloth to your face and forehead several times daily.
  • A nasal saline rinse with sterile water may help clear the thick and sticky mucus from your nose. Never use tap water for a saline nasal rinse, as some organisms in water can potentially cause a life threatening infection.
  • Stay hydrated with drinks like water and tea to help thin the mucus. You can also use an OTC medication, such as guaifenesin (Mucinex), to thin the mucus.
  • Using a humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture to the air. You can also turn on the shower and sit in the bathroom with the door closed to surround yourself with steam.
  • Consider using an OTC nasal corticosteroid spray. Decongestants are available over the counter, but you may want to ask a doctor before trying one.

Pain medications

For some people, sinusitis can trigger a sinus headache or pressure in their foreheads and cheeks. OTC medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help relieve pain.

Antibiotics

If your symptoms do not improve within a few weeks, you may have a bacterial infection that needs treatment by a doctor. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen again after improving, you may need antibiotics.

If you begin taking an antibiotic, it’s important to complete the full course of treatment. Do not stop taking your medication earlier than directed, even if you feel better, as this can lead to bacteria developing resistance to the antibiotic and your infection becoming harder to treat.

The doctor may have you schedule another visit so they can monitor your condition. If your sinusitis does not improve or worsens by your next visit, the doctor may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

They may also order additional tests to determine whether allergies are triggering your sinusitis.

Surgery

If your chronic sinusitis does not improve with time and medication, you may undergo surgery to:

Because sinusitis can develop after a cold, the flu, or an allergic reaction, following a lifestyle that supports your immune function and reducing your exposure to germs and allergens may help prevent it.

To reduce your risk, you can:

Acute sinusitis usually doesn’t cause complications. However, if you have severe sinusitis or a weakened immune system, sinusitis may require hospitalization. Sinusitis caused by a fungal infection can also be serious and life threatening.

Some serious health conditions can have symptoms that may initially appear similar to sinusitis. If you have concerning symptoms, it’s best to seek medication attention to rule out more serious conditions, such as:

  • an abscess, which is a walled-off collection of pus in the sinus cavity
  • meningitis, a life threatening infection that can cause brain and spinal cord damage
  • orbital cellulitis, an infection of the tissue surrounding the eyes

Sinusitis is usually treatable, and most people recover without seeing a doctor or taking antibiotics. However, tell a doctor if you have repeat or chronic sinus issues. You could have an underlying medical condition, such as nasal polyps.

Also, it’s best to talk with a doctor if you have severe or concerning symptoms. They may want to perform tests to rule out other health conditions.