Sinusitis, also known as rhinosinusitis, is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the sinuses. This condition can lead to various symptoms, including thick nasal mucus, a plugged nose, and facial pain. Other common symptoms of sinusitis may include fever, headaches, a poor sense of smell, and a sore throat. In some cases, patients may experience a sensation of phlegm oozing out.
Painful pressure is often the main symptom of a sinus infection. Depending on which sinus is affected, the pain can be located in different areas of the face. For example, frontal sinusitis causes pain in the forehead, maxillary sinusitis results in pain over the cheek or in the upper jaw and teeth, and ethmoid or sphenoid sinusitis can cause pain behind the eyes. Sphenoid sinusitis may also manifest as pain at the top of the head.
In cases of severe symptoms or when the condition seems to be worsening, it might be necessary to consider antibiotics. However, it’s important to note that antibiotics are not always effective in treating sinus infections, as they can be caused by factors other than bacteria, such as viral infections or allergies.
Understanding the underlying cause of sinusitis is crucial for effective treatment. Allergic reactions, for example, can lead to sinusitis due to swelling of the nasal tissue and increased mucus production. In some instances, what starts as a common cold can lead to sinusitis, with symptoms typically resolving within 7 to 10 days.
For those experiencing persistent or severe symptoms of sinusitis, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Treatments can vary depending on the severity and cause of the infection, ranging from medication to manage symptoms to more specialized treatments for chronic cases.
Sinusitis | Harvard Health | Sinusitis – Harvard Health | Inflamed sinuses: It’s best to watch and wait – Harvard Health | 10 Things to Know About Sinusitis – Keck Medicine of USC | Sinusitis | Otolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgery – Stanford Medicine | Sinus Infection – Rhinosinusitis | Ohio State Medical Center | Unlocking the mystery of your sinuses – Mayo Clinic Health System | When to seek immediate medical attention for neck pain | Nose and Sinus Disease – Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery | Medical Management of Sinusitis | Iowa Head and Neck Protocols
