What Are the Symptoms of a Sinus Infection?
Sinus Infections, or Sinusitis, occur when the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the skull, become inflamed due to infection, usually following a cold or allergy flare-up. The symptoms of a sinus infection can vary from mild to severe, and they typically involve both nasal and facial symptoms. Common signs include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure (especially around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead), and a runny nose with thick, yellow or green mucus. Some people may also experience a diminished sense of smell or taste, postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat), and sore throat due to irritation from the drainage.
In addition to these nasal and facial symptoms, individuals with a sinus infection may also experience headaches, fatigue, and a cough that worsens at night. Fever is less common but can occur, especially in cases of bacterial sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis may cause symptoms lasting for more than 12 weeks, leading to ongoing discomfort and disruption to daily life. If symptoms are severe, persist for more than a week, or are accompanied by high fever or swelling around the eyes, medical attention should be sought. Sinus infections are typically diagnosed through a physical exam, and in some cases, imaging tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
