Sinus infections are extremely common, affecting over 31 million people in the United States each year and accounting for millions of medical visits. These infections can last from a few days to several weeks and often cause uncomfortable symptoms that impact quality of life. People with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing sinus infections and complications.

What Is a Sinus Infection?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces located in the cheeks, forehead, and around the eyes. They serve important functions such as humidifying the air we breathe, enhancing vocal resonance, and offering protection in the event of facial trauma.

A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, occurs when fluid accumulates in the sinuses. This buildup allows viruses, bacteria, or fungi to grow, leading to inflammation and swelling of the sinus lining. The result is a variety of symptoms that range from mild discomfort to more severe complications.

Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

Acute sinus infections typically last between three and eight weeks. Infections that last longer are considered chronic. Recognizing the symptoms early can help guide treatment and prevent worsening.

increased mucus
Sinus infections often produce thick mucus. Normally, mucus is thin and barely noticeable. However, during an infection, it becomes thicker. While it may turn yellow or green, this color change does not necessarily mean a bacterial infection, as viruses can cause similar discoloration.

nasal congestion
Nasal stuffiness often goes hand-in-hand with a runny nose. The infection causes inflammation, which swells the lining of the nasal passages, leading to congestion. This process is usually accompanied by increased mucus production.

post-nasal drip
Everyone experiences mucus drainage at the back of the throat throughout the day. However, with a sinus infection, the mucus becomes thicker, leading to a more noticeable sensation. Symptoms can include throat clearing, frequent swallowing, sore throat, a gurgling voice, or the feeling of a lump in the throat.

facial pain or pressure
A sinus infection can create a sense of pressure, tightness, or fullness in areas such as the cheeks, forehead, or between the eyes. This discomfort may become more noticeable when bending over or lying down.

decreased sense of smell
Loss of smell during a sinus infection can result from blocked nasal passages, preventing smell molecules from reaching the olfactory nerve. In some cases, viral infections may directly damage this nerve, causing temporary or sometimes prolonged changes in the sense of smell.

tooth pain
Pain in the upper molars can occur due to their close proximity to the sinus cavities. Inflammation in the sinuses can irritate nearby dental nerves, leading to pain that may be felt on one or both sides of the mouth.

decreased energy
A general sense of fatigue is common during a sinus infection. This happens because the body is using energy to fight off the infection. Additionally, inflammatory chemicals released by the immune system may contribute to feelings of tiredness and lethargy.

ear fullness
The Eustachian tubes, which connect the ears to the throat, can also become inflamed during a sinus infection. This may result in pressure or fullness in the ears, along with popping sounds, reduced hearing, ringing in the ears, or balance issues.

fever
A low-grade fever is a possible sign of a sinus infection, especially in viral cases. However, if a fever persists for more than three to four days, it may suggest a more serious or bacterial infection that requires medical evaluation.

When To Seek Medical Care

Seeing a healthcare provider is important for determining whether your symptoms are due to a sinus infection, a cold, COVID-19, or another condition. Professional evaluation helps ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.

if you have severe symptoms
Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe headache or facial pain

  • Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement

  • A fever lasting more than four days

  • Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement

if you have frequent sinus infections
If you've had several sinus infections in a year or feel that your symptoms never fully resolve, this may indicate chronic rhinosinusitis. Chronic sinusitis typically lasts more than eight weeks and often involves long-term inflammation. In such cases, it's recommended to see an ENT specialist, and in more complex cases, a rhinologist who focuses on nasal and sinus disorders.

Sinus Infection Treatment

Treatment depends on whether the sinus infection is caused by a virus or bacteria. Most sinus infections are viral and improve on their own, but both types can benefit from supportive care.

treatment for viral infections
Since antibiotics do not work against viruses, symptom relief is the primary focus. Effective methods include:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers

  • Saline nasal sprays or rinses

  • Steroid nasal sprays

  • Warm compresses on the face

  • Inhaling steam from a hot shower or bowl of hot water

These approaches can help open nasal passages, reduce swelling, and ease pressure.

treatment for bacterial infections
Bacterial sinus infections may be suspected when symptoms last more than 10 days or worsen after seeming to improve. In such cases, a healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics. However, not all bacterial infections require immediate antibiotic treatment. In some cases, a "wait-and-see" approach may be used, especially if the patient’s symptoms are manageable.

Supportive care like nasal irrigation and rest can still be beneficial. If symptoms persist or worsen, antibiotics may then be introduced.

A Quick Review

Sinus infections can be uncomfortable and cause symptoms like thick mucus, congestion, facial pressure, post-nasal drip, and fatigue. Most cases are caused by viruses and resolve naturally with time and supportive care. However, when symptoms are severe, last more than 10 days, or return frequently, medical attention is necessary.

Treatment varies depending on the cause and severity, and may include medications, home remedies, or antibiotics in the case of bacterial infections. Managing sinus infections promptly can prevent complications and help restore comfort and respiratory health.