Sinus infections are among the most common reasons people visit a healthcare provider. More than 31 million people in the U.S. experience sinus infections each year, leading to about 16 million doctor visits.
These infections can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks and bring along uncomfortable symptoms like congestion, post-nasal drip, and facial pain. While many sinus infections clear up on their own, some require medical care.
What Is A Sinus Infection?
The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the cheeks, forehead, and around the eyes. They help humidify the air you breathe, provide resonance to your voice, and add structural protection to the face.
A sinus infection (sinusitis) happens when fluid builds up inside the sinuses, creating an environment where bacteria, viruses, or fungi can grow. This buildup causes inflammation and swelling, leading to common sinus infection symptoms.
Common Symptoms Of A Sinus Infection
Sinus infection symptoms vary but often include:
-
Increased mucus
-
Nasal congestion
-
Post-nasal drip
-
Facial pain or pressure
-
Decreased sense of smell
-
Tooth pain
-
Fatigue
-
Ear fullness
-
Fever
Increased Mucus
Normally, mucus is thin and watery. With sinus infections, mucus often becomes thicker. Its color may be yellow or green, but this does not necessarily mean the infection is bacterial—viruses can cause the same change.
Nasal Congestion
Inflammation from infection causes swelling in the nasal lining, leading to stuffy or blocked airways. Congestion usually comes with a runny nose due to excess mucus production.
Post-Nasal Drip
Sinus infections often lead to mucus draining down the back of the throat, known as post-nasal drip. This can cause:
-
Sore throat
-
Throat clearing
-
Frequent swallowing
-
Raspy speech
-
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Facial Pain Or Pressure
Infections may cause pressure or squeezing sensations in the cheeks, forehead, or around the eyes. Pain often worsens when leaning forward.
Decreased Sense Of Smell
Loss of smell can happen due to:
-
Congestion blocking odor molecules.
-
Nerve damage caused by viral infections (including COVID-19).
Smell usually returns as congestion improves, though nerve-related loss may take longer.
Tooth Pain
Because the roots of upper molars are close to the sinuses, inflammation can cause tooth pain, typically in the back teeth. Sometimes, dental infections can also trigger sinusitis.
Decreased Energy
Even though sinus infections are localized, your body uses energy to fight them. This immune response releases chemicals that cause fatigue and low energy.
Ear Fullness
Inflammation can block the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat. This may lead to:
-
Fullness or pressure in the ears
-
Reduced hearing
-
Popping sounds
-
Ringing (tinnitus)
-
Balance issues
Fever
A low-grade fever may develop during a sinus infection, especially if viral. Persistent or higher fevers may suggest a bacterial infection.
When To Seek Medical Care
Most sinus infections improve with home care, but medical attention is necessary if you have:
-
Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days without improvement
-
Severe headache or facial pain
-
Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement
-
Fever lasting more than 3–4 days
-
Multiple sinus infections in a year
-
Chronic symptoms lasting over 8 weeks (possible chronic sinusitis)
If symptoms last for months, an ENT specialist or rhinologist may be needed.
Sinus Infection Treatment
Treatment depends on whether the infection is viral or bacterial.
Viral Sinus Infections
Most sinus infections are viral and improve within 4–5 days. Relief strategies include:
-
Over-the-counter pain relievers
-
Saline rinses or nasal irrigation
-
Steroid nasal sprays
-
Steam inhalation or warm compresses
Antibiotics are not effective for viral sinus infections.
Bacterial Sinus Infections
A bacterial sinus infection may be suspected if symptoms:
-
Last 10 days or more without improvement
-
Worsen after initially getting better
Treatment options:
-
Antibiotics (if prescribed by a healthcare provider)
-
Symptom management with saline rinses, nasal sprays, or OTC pain relievers
-
In some cases, providers may use a “wait and see” approach, delaying antibiotics unless symptoms persist.
A Quick Review
Sinus infections affect millions every year and bring symptoms such as mucus buildup, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, facial pain, tooth pain, and fatigue.
Most cases are viral and resolve on their own, but bacterial sinus infections may require antibiotics. If symptoms last longer than 10 days, worsen, or keep recurring, it’s important to seek medical care.
