Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Sinusitis
There are a number of common signs and symptoms of a
sinus infection. The most common include:
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Drainage of thick, yellow-to-green mucus (which can drain out the nose or down the back of the throat)
- Tooth pain or discomfort
- Face pain or discomfort that is worse when bending over.
The pain or discomfort with a sinus infection will depend, in part, on which sinuses are affected. Common locations for pain include:
- The forehead
- Teeth
- Upper jaw
- Cheeks
- Behind the eyes
- The side of the nose.
Most people have pain or tenderness in several locations.
Other possible symptoms and signs of an acute sinus infection include:
- Fever (temperature greater than 100.4ºF or 38ºC)
- Cough (which may be worse at night)
- Ear pressure or fullness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Decreased (or loss of) sense of smell or taste
- Bad breath (halitosis).
Most symptoms of
sinusitis develop over 1 day and improve within 7 to 10 days. Symptoms tend to be at their worst from day 3 to day 6.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
You should, however, contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your symptoms have not improved in seven days, or
- The following symptoms have been present for more than seven days:
- Face or tooth pain, especially if it is only on one side
- Thick, yellow-to-green discharge from the nose
- Cheek tenderness or pain (this is where your maxillary sinuses are).
You should also contact your healthcare provider if symptoms were getting better but suddenly get worse.
Signs that you should contact your healthcare provider right away include:
- High fever (over 102.5ºF or 39.2ºC)
- Double vision
- Decreases in vision
- Drooping eyelid
- Swelling around the eyelid
- Redness around the eyelid
- Severe headache
- Severe facial pain
- Stiff neck
- Shortness of breath
- Changes in mental state.
