Sinus infection
The paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities located within the bones of the face. Although they are not part of the nasal cavity itself, they communicate with the inside of the nose through small drainage openings. Inflammation and swelling can develop within a sinus, blocking its opening and preventing normal drainage. When this occurs, bacteria may multiply within the trapped mucus, leading to a sinus infection (sinusitis).
What Are the Symptoms of sinusitis?
People with sinusitis may experience a range of symptoms that are similar to those of a common cold. These can include nasal congestion, nasal drainage, postnasal drip, sore throat, facial pressure or swelling, reduced sense of smell and taste, headaches, fever, fatigue, and bad breath.
Although uncommon, sinusitis can lead to serious complications if the infection spreads beyond the sinuses. Potential complications include worsening asthma symptoms, meningitis, vision disturbances, aneurysms, and stroke.
Treatment for sinusitis depends on the severity of the condition and whether it is acute or chronic. Many patients achieve symptom control with medical therapy, which may include saline nasal sprays or rinses to clear the nasal passages, corticosteroid nasal sprays or oral steroids to reduce inflammation, antihistamines to manage allergy-related symptoms, and antibiotics when a bacterial infection is present. Decongestants may provide short-term relief of nasal congestion, although prolonged use can sometimes worsen symptoms.
For individuals with persistent or chronic sinusitis, longer-term treatment options such as immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended. When symptoms continue despite appropriate medical management, functional endoscopic sinus surgery may be considered. This procedure restores normal sinus drainage and function by removing blockages at the sinus openings, helping to reduce recurrent infections and improve long-term symptom relief.