Sinusitis (sinus infection)

Sinusitis is swelling of the sinuses, usually caused by an infection. It’s common and usually clears up on its own within 4 weeks. But medicines can help if it’s taking a long time to go away.

Check if it’s sinusitis

Sinusitis is common after a cold or flu.

The main symptoms of sinusitis include:

pain, swelling and tenderness around your cheeks, eyes or forehead
a blocked or runny nose
a reduced sense of smell
green or yellow mucus from your nose
a high temperature

Other symptoms include:

a headache
toothache
bad breath
a cough
a feeling of pressure in the ears

You may also snore at night and sound nasal when you speak.

Young children may also be irritable, have difficulty feeding and breathe through their mouth.

Call 999 or go to A&E now if you or someone has any of these:

Signs of a heart attack (chest pain, pressure, heaviness, tightness or squeezing across the chest)
Signs of a stroke (face dropping on one side, cannot hold both arms up, difficulty speaking)
Sudden confusion or delirium (unsure of own name or age)
Suicide attempt (by taking something or self-harming)
Severe difficulty breathing (not being able to get words out, choking or gasping)
A serious accident, or severe injuries burns or scalds
Heavy bleeding (spraying, pouring or enough to make a puddle)
Severe injuries (after a serious accident or assault)
A seizure or fit (shaking, jerking, or unconscious & can’t be woken up)
Sudden, rapid swelling (of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue)

Can sinusitis be prevented?

Depending on the cause, there are a few ways to reduce your risk of getting sinus infections, including:

Rinsing your nose with saline (salt water) as directed by your provider.
Taking steps to prevent allergies. This includes medications, allergy shots and avoiding your known allergy triggers (like dust, pollen or smoke).
Using steroid nasal sprays if your provider recommends them.
Establishing good handwashing and other habits that reduce your risk of getting sick with infectious diseases.
Avoiding smoke. There are ways to help you quit smoking, if you do.